25% of children in the UK have vitamin D deficiency
Last reviewed: 17.10.2021
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Scientists from the Royal College of Pediatrics and Children's Health say that about 25% of children in the UK are deficient in vitamin D, which is the reason for the development of rickets. In addition, the lack of vitamin D in the body is also dangerous because it increases the risk of tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis and diabetes.
Studies conducted in January this year are very worrisome to doctors, because the incidence of rickets among the smallest residents of the UK increased.
Mitch Blair, a professor at King's College and lead author of the study, calls for a joint effort to solve this problem. He offers to deepen the knowledge of medical workers about readily available and inexpensive sources of vitamin D, and also to inform the public about the need for eating foods that contain this vitamin.
According to studies of specialists, the majority of the multinational population of the country suffers from a deficiency in the body of vitamin D.
The current research of experts suggests that vitamin D deficiency is a critical problem among children, adolescents and pregnant women. Experts note an increase in four times the incidence of rickets. The last time the greatest spread of this disease was observed in the UK in the 19th century.
Earlier this year, the UK's chief sanitary officer suggested that all pregnant and lactating women, people over 65, and children aged 6 months to 5 years, take vitamin D as supplements.
The government's program entitled "Healthy Start" provides free vitamins for low-income families and for those who are at risk. Odako these vitamin supplements are deficient and the level of their consumption is low. Experts also note the need for health workers to be able to accurately determine vitamin D deficiency in children. Signs of his lack in the body is pain in the bones and muscles, weakness and cramps.
"We know that vitamin D deficiency is a problem that is gaining momentum. Our studies are this confirmation, and also show strikingly high levels of vitamin deficiency among certain population groups, including children. People get only a part of the required amount of vitamin D - only 10%. But it is possible to solve this problem and it is necessary to solve it. You can receive vitamin D from a properly formulated diet, as well as walking outdoors, basking in the sun, and at the same time and vitaminizing. You can also take supplements. Replenish the body with vitamins, in particular vitamin D, is not difficult, "says Professor Blair.
Employees of the Royal College launched a campaign aimed at increasing knowledge of the public and the need for vitamin D, as well as its availability, cheapness and benefits.
Sources of vitamin D are products of animal origin, in particular fish: salmon, herring, tuna, mackerel and mackerel. Also this vitamin is rich in seafood, cod liver, pork and beef liver, cottage cheese, egg yolks, butter and cheese.