Vitamin D in pediatric health and disease

Pediatr Allergy Immunol. 2020 Feb:31 Suppl 24:54-57. doi: 10.1111/pai.13154.

Abstract

Several scientific societies established that vitamin D (VD), in its metabolized form 25(OH)D, levels higher than 20 ng/mL are sufficient to ensure optimal bone health, while 25(OH)D levels higher than 30 ng/mL are needed to favor VD extraskeletal actions. However, it has been estimated that approximately 30% of children and 60% of adults worldwide are VD deficient and insufficient, respectively. This is the reason why it is important to provide a practical approach to VD supplementation for infants, children, and adolescents. It is the pediatrician's role to evaluate the modifiable lifestyle risk factors for deficiency, particularly a reduced sun exposure, following an evidence-based approach, and to suggest VD supplementation only when there is a rational reason to support its use.

Keywords: childhood disorders; health; vitamin D3.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ascorbic Acid Deficiency / immunology*
  • Asthma / metabolism*
  • Autoimmunity
  • Child
  • Dermatitis, Atopic / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / metabolism*
  • Respiratory Tract Infections / metabolism*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • Vitamin D / immunology
  • Vitamin D / metabolism*

Substances

  • Vitamin D