Features

Health & Nutrition – Under the sun

Practice Health
What is vitamin D deficiency, how can it be avoided and is the link to coronavirus credible? Meredith Jones Russell reports
People with darker skin are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, and children generally are vulnerable to it
People with darker skin are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency, and children generally are vulnerable to it

The importance of vitamin D for children has usually been considered in relation to building healthy bones, but the coronavirus pandemic is now highlighting its potential significance for lung function and fighting infection as well.

We know that vitamin D is needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain and muscle weakness, caused by a condition called osteomalacia, in children and adults.

SOURCES AND SUPPLEMENTS

During the summer, most people should be able to get all the vitamin D they need from sunlight. However, during autumn and winter, the sun is not strong enough for the body to make vitamin D, so diet becomes more important.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here