Vitamin D is important for the growth and development of bones and teeth.(
5) For this reason, vitamin D is an important growth nutrient for infants and children. Vitamin D supplementation in early pregnancy may prevent preeclampsia and promote neonatal well-being.(
6) Vitamin D is one of the primary regulators of calcium absorption, which is also important for proper bone health and development. Deficiencies are frequently found in individuals with or at risk for osteoporosis.(
7),(
8),(
9),(
10),(
11) Considering this relationship, vitamin D insufficiency may have an effect on bone strength.(
12),(
13) Demineralization is ocurring in children who are vitamin D deficient.(
14)
Vitamin D is perhaps best known as a treatment for the disease associated with vitamin D deficiency, rickets.(15) Researchers found that vitamin D deficiency increased risk of mortality for men and women.(16) Studies have indicated that a higher intake of vitamin D could lower the risk of breast cancer in women.(17),(18) Sun-induced vitamin D has shown benefits in colon, lung, breast and prostate cancer.(19) Vitamin D may be associated with improved survival after diagnosis of colorectal cancer.(20),(21) Deficiency has also been linked to Parkinson's disease, Crohn's disease and hearing loss.(22),(23),(24) Vitamin D was found to boost the immune system of subjects, thereby, protecting the brain from Alzheimer's disease.(25)
Supplementation may treat skin disorders such as psoriasis and scleroderma.(26),(27) Finally, supplementation may be necessary for epileptics, as medications to treat the disorder may deplete vitamin D.(28) Two studies found vitamin D deficiency in young people is associated with an increased incidence of risk factors for cardiovascular problems such as heart attack and stroke.(29),(30)
Researchers found that vitamin D supplementation in children may reduce the risk of developing type 1 diabetes later in life.(31) Vitamin D from ultraviolet B rays reduced the risk of type 1 diabetes in children.(32) Results of a study revealed vitamin D deficiencies and was concluded that children not getting enough vitamin D through their diet should take a vitamin D supplement of 400IU daily.(33) Vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy and early childhood may reduce the risk of a child developing multiple sclerosis later in life.(34)