Vitamin D and children’s development

Vitamin D – why is it important for children?

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in several of the body’s functions. Among other things, vitamin D is important for:

  • The absorption of calcium and phosphate from the small intestine.
  • The distribution and mobilization of these minerals through the bloodstream and reabsorption in the liver, allowing the body to benefit from these important minerals.

Through these processes, vitamin D contributes to maintaining a healthy bone structure and immune system.

Read more about vitamins and minerals

Vitamin D – extra important in childhood

In the childhood, vitamin D is thought to be extra important, as it is vital for the development of the skeleton – something that will play an important role throughout life. Playing, falling and challenging the body are a natural part of growing up and depend on a strong and functional bone structure.

More articles about children and parenthood

Vitamin D and children – daily amount?

The NHS recommends a daily intake of 10 micrograms of vitamin D for all children over the age of 1.

Möller’s has several good alternatives for children from three years and older to ensure they get the recommended daily intake. Besides the traditional Möller’s Cod Liver Oil, there are two products especially formulated for children: Möller’s Cod Liver Oil Fruits and Möller’s Omega-3 Fish. The latter are gel fish with delicious sweet fruit flavors.

Sources of vitamin D

Food, sunlight and cod liver oil are some of the best sources of vitamin D. Vitamin D exists in several forms, of which D2 and D3 are the most common. Vitamin D3 is found in animal food sources such as Möller’s cod liver oil, oily fish, fish liver and eggs. Vitamin D2 is found in non-animal food sources like plants, mushrooms and yeast. The body can also produce vitamin D itself in the form of D3 after skin is exposed to direct sunlight.

In the Northern Hemisphere, where we don’t get as much sun during winter, it is challenging to get enough vitamin D through sun exposure. It can also be a struggle to get children to eat enough vitamin D-rich food such as oily fish. Hence, products like Möller’s Omega-3 Fish are a good alternative to guarantee that your child’s daily need for this vitamin is covered.

Vitamin D deficiency in children

In the past, a lack of vitamin D sometimes led to rickets, especially in areas where there was a lack of oily fish, cranberries and other foods rich in vitamin D. Although this disease is rare today, it is still important to ensure we get enough vitamin D, especially during the winter when sunlight is not as strong and readily available.

Lack of vitamin D can also lead to ailments later in life, especially in old age, when osteoporosis is common. Don’t wait to start taking precautions against this disease. Make sure to build a good foundation early in life!