Here’s how to tell if your kid is lacking in this essential nutrient.

Vitamin D affects everything from behavior, sleep, growth, and immune function. Without it toddlers and kids become restless and cranky, and are more vulnerable to picking up viruses. During the summer months, outdoor activities in the sun mean children get extra exposure to Vitamin D, which makes up for any gaps in their diet. Once the temperatures drop and the days become shorter however, parents need to make sure kids have a daily source of this vital nutrient. Here’s the signs your child might need a Vitamin D supplement. 

What Happens if Kids Don't Get Enough Vitamin D?

Tiredness:

A lack of energy and fatigue in kids can be an indication that they need more vitamin D. This nutrient is essential for sleep efficiency and a lack of vitamin D often results in short sleep cycles or difficulty falling asleep at night. This then leads to excessive tiredness the following day, which accumulates and gets worse over time. 

Irritable Behavior: 

Kids need Vitamin D to produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine properly. Without it, a kid's mood and focus is disrupted. If a child has a short attention span, inability to concentrate, or regulate emotions, they could need an extra source of Vitamin D in their diet. 

Muscle and Bone Pain: 

Toddlers and kids are going through intense periods of growth which is why parents need to ensure they have all the nutrients to support their development. Vitamin D is vital for calcium absorption. If children don’t have enough, the growth of their bones, teeth, and muscles is impaired, causing aches, cramps, and pains. 

Innate Immunity:

Vitamin D activates the body’s first line of defense against bacteria and viruses. It also reduces inflammation, regulates immune cells, and fights respiratory infections. While bugs and colds are unavoidable in winter, if your kid is constantly sick or takes extended periods to recover, they may need more Vitamin D in their diet. 

Safe Supplementation of Vitamin D for Toddlers and Kids:

EllaOla’s Unflavored Powder Multivitamins provide the recommended daily dose of Vitamin D for toddlers and kids, in addition to 19 essential nutrients. The formula has been developed alongside leading pediatric dietitians to ensure it contains the exact amount needed for each age group. EllaOla’s products have also received the Clean Label Purity Award, after extensive third-party testing to ensure their formulas are free from over 200 toxins and contaminants.