Vitamin D deficiency in Children: An update on its Prevalence, Therapeutics and Knowledge gaps
Journal Title: Indian Journal of Nutrition - Year 2017, Vol 4, Issue 3
Abstract
Background: Vitamin D Deficiency (VDD) is known to have adverse implications from conception throughout lifespan. Vitamin D is important in children mainly because of its profound effect on growth and development and more importantly bone health. Recent evidence suggests maintaining 25(OH)D levels above 20 ng/ml for maximizing health benefits. Despite ample sunshine, VDD is prevalent among 50-90% of Indian children. For understanding functional relevance of this widely prevalent VDD, a comprehensive overview of evidence in children is required. The aim of this article is to review studies related to VDD among children. This paper collates information from various epidemiological studies among children pertaining to prevalence, morbidities and therapeutics thus highlighting the current research gaps and challenges in Indian context. Methods: Literature search with keywords focusing on Vitamin D deficiency, Vitamin D, child health, Pediatric, Hypovitaminosis D and Bone health was carried out through computerized databases- Medline, Embase, PubMed, Cochrane and Google. Results: Data in pediatric age group is heterogeneous with limited evidence in under five age group. The VDD among children may be defined either on basis of a “population based reference value” or a “functional health based reference value”. Functional cut offs refer to the concentration of 25(OH)D at which PTH begins to increase and needs more validation in view of varied response among children. Determinants of circulatory levels of Vitamin D metabolites and evaluation of complete 25(OH)D statuses including Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) in children also needs further evidence. Importantly, the use of vitamin D supplements among children should be done cautiously. The Consensus by Indian Academy of Pediatrics may be followed in this context until Indian specific evidence based guidelines are formulated. Conclusion: There is a need to explore Vitamin D paradox with regards to cut offs and risk factors such as genetic, environmental and behavioral factors in Indian children.
Authors and Affiliations
Beena Joshi
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP332395
- DOI -
- Views 181
- Downloads 0
Weight Gain Pattern During Pregnancy among Women Attending for Normal Labor at Makasar Primary Health Care, Jakarta
Background: Maternal nutritional stutus before and during pregnancy were important for optimal pregnancy outcomes. Institute of Medicine had already published guideline for proper weight gain during pregnancy. Women in J...
Geriatric Nutrition: A Bird Eye View
India’s older population will increase dramatically over the next four decades. The share of India’s population ages 60 and older is projected to climb from 8% in 2010 to 19% in 2050, according to the United Nations Popu...
Physico-Chemical Analysis of Some Commercial Honey Samples from Telangana
The present work encompasses a critical physico-chemical characterization of 5 commercial honey samples available in India. The analysis includes moisture content, pH, electrical conductivity, acidity, total sugars, redu...
Production and Investigation of Biochemical and Organoleptic Changes of Mixed Fruit Juice during Storage
A blend of different fruits has a great specialty on its splendid color, flavor, taste and nutritional contents. The purpose of this study was to explore the acceptable formulation of mixed fruit juice with better storag...
Iodized Salt Profile at Regional Markets in East Java According to the Indonesian National Standard Analyzed by Spectrophotometric Method
Background and Objectives: A study on the iodine contents of iodized salt at regional markets in Blitar, Ngawi, Gresik, and Pasuruan districts, East Java Province has been held by analysing 202 samples of various brands...