Many infants may be deficient in vitamin D

New research shows many infants and toddlers may be deficient in vitamin D. But, health experts are divided on the best way to ensure young children get their recommended amounts of vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones.

Low vitamin D levels can cause bone loss, in rare cases leading to the disease known as rickets, where bones become so soft they risk deformity.

New research from Children’s Hospital Boston suggests many young children have inadequate levels of vitamin D, which could be harming their bone development.

Doctors analyzed blood samples from 365 infants and toddlers and found 12 percent were deficient in vitamin D.

A full 40 percent had below-optimal levels.

Of those deficient in vitamin D, 13 had evidence of bone mineral loss and 1 showed signs of rickets.

The authors suggest that all young children should receive regular vitamin D supplements — especially infants who are breastfeeding because breast milk does not contain vitamin D.

However, other experts say routine supplements for children would be premature — we don’t know how much to give them or what the long-term effects would be.

If you’re concerned about vitamin D levels in your child, ask your pediatrician about a blood test to check for possible deficiency and whether a vitamin supplement might be necessary.