Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin”. Your body manufactures it with the help of adequate sunlight. We work, learn and play indoors most of the time. Some of the northern states of the United States and the western world have no adequate sunshine during the winter months. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. Calcium and phosphate are two minerals that are essential for normal bone formation. Throughout childhood, your body uses these minerals to produce bones. If you do not get enough calcium, or if your body does not absorb enough calcium from your diet, bone production and bone tissues may suffer. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to osteoporosis in adults or rickets in children. Human milk and infant formulas have very low levels of Vitamin D. Excessive sun exposure is not recommended due to increased incidence of skin cancer.

Signs and Symptoms