Kids Low In Vitamin D At Risk For Depression and Heart Problems Later in Life

If your children are not getting enough vitamin D, it could lead to two avoidable diseases in their teenage and adult years.

A study has found children low in vitamin D are more likely to experience depression compared to children with higher levels of vitamin D. Previous studies have shown vitamin D can prevent or reduce depression in adults.

A separate study found inadequate intake of vitamin D in childhood can lead to hardened arteries and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease as adults. This supports prior studies that have linked low vitamin D levels with heart attack and stroke.

The study, which began in 1980, followed over 2,000 kids. At age 45, they had ultrasounds performed to assess the thickness of their arteries. Thicker arteries are a sign of arterial hardening that can lead to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, heart attack and stroke.

The kids (now adults) who had the lowest levels of vitamin D (average level of 15ng/ml) were nearly twice as likely to have thickened carotid arteries compared to the participants with higher levels of vitamin D.

According to the vitamin D council, vitamin D levels between 40-80ng/dl are ideal, with at least 50ng/dl being the level to aim for. This range will offer you and your children the best protection against some of the most common deadly diseases that are associated with vitamin D deficiency.

How To Get Enough Vitamin D

Vitamin D is one of the most cost effective strategies to boost your health. It is difficult to get adequate amounts on a consistent basis through diet alone. This is why we recommend supplementation and safe sun exposure.

Many health experts are recommending 1,000-5,000IU of vitamin D a day for children and 5,000-10,000IU for adults.

 

Sources:
https://www.naturalnews.com/034729_vitamin_D_deficiency_depression_children.html#ixzz1kI1aFap6
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/02/150210141736.htm
https://www.vitamindcouncil.org/about-vitamin-d/testing-for-vitamin-d/#