Dietary Supplementation of Vitamin D to Curb Rickets in Children under Five Years in India

Abstract

Purpose: Rickets is a common disorder among children under five years mostly in the developing countries. It negatively affect normal growth and development of children thereby reducing their genetic potential. The purpose of this study was to analyze the cause of rickets in children under five years and solutions available.

Methodology: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional approach and was conducted in the pediatric outpatients department of the Guru Tegh Bahadur (GTB) Hospital & University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) Delhi. The study period was one year from September 2021 to September 2022 on 130 diagnosed cases of the rickets. Patients were enrolled via non- probability convenient sampling technique and a set developed inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data was collected through self-structured questionnaire after taking informed consent. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 26.

Findings: The study found out that giving getting enough of both vitamin D and calcium is crucial to maintaining bone health and protecting against disorders like osteoporosis, a condition that is characterized by weak, brittle bones. While the daily value (DV) of vitamin D is 800 IU per day, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) differs slightly depending on your age. Children and adults ages 1–70 need approximately 600 IU of vitamin D per day. This can come from a combination of food sources and sunlight. Adults over 70 should aim for at least 800 IU (20 mcg) of vitamin D per day. The RDA for calcium also varies by age. Children ages 4–8 need about 1,000 mg of calcium daily. Children ages 9–18 need approximately 1,300 mg daily. Adults ages 19–50 need about 1,000 mg daily. Over the age of 50, most people need 1,200 mg per day.

Conclusion: The study conclude that children aged between one and three years are more susceptible to rickets than children between four and five years. The study also conclude that lower socioeconomic background, male gender, exclusive breastfeeding, unbalanced nutrition and mother’s poor nutritional status all contribute to high incidences of rickets in children under five years. Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption in your body. This plays a key role in maintaining bone strength and skeletal integrity.

Recommendations: Supplements should be added in the diet of children during breastfeeding. Also, there should be adequate sunlight exposure of children. Finally, malnutrition of both children and mothers should be treated.