Common Deficiencies in Children

Vitamin deficiencies among Australian children have seen a dramatic increase in the past decade. A recent study conducted by the Australian Paediatric Surveillance Unit revealed how serious the issue is, with 41% of children under the age of 15 found to have a long term health condition and a significant increase in the presence of rickets, which is caused by a lack of vitamin D.
In order to understand the implications of deficiencies among children, you need to know the effect of the conditions they experience. The following are some of the common nutrient deficiencies occurring in Australians.

Vitamin D deficiency

Vitamin D is what your body produces when you exposed to the sun. The nutrient increases your body’s absorption of calcium and phosphate. The two minerals are needed to develop and maintain your bones. Vitamin D deficiency can result in rickets among children. Rickets is a condition where their bone becomes soft and brittle. This can cause stunt their growth and leave them physically weak when they grow.
Deficiency in vitamin D is common is Australia due to a change in the amount of time people spend indoors. It is important to get out or have a vitamin to help increase your vitamin D intake.

Iron deficiency
Your body needs iron in order for it to function and process food and liquids efficiently. Iron deficiency among children can lead to anaemia. Anaemia is when your red blood cells are alarmingly low which can result in irritability, general weakness and shortness of breath.
For children, this can have an impact on their academic performance. Iron deficiency can lower their learning capabilities and attention span. The condition is often caused by a decrease in meat intake.

Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 is used by your brain and nervous system to function. Deficiency in the nutrient can lead to symptoms such as general weakness, reduced mental capabilities and depression. In severe cases, patients can experience dementia, Alzheimers and other cognitive issues. The vitamin can be found in a variety of foods.
A proper diet with the essential vitamins and minerals your child needs as well as lots of outdoor play can help ensure their health is not endangered. Elite Vitamin Zone has a wide range of children’s supplements and vitamins to increase their intake, so head online and order some now!