Low vitamin D levels have been linked to an array of health problems including back pain, depression, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune diseases, some cancers, and diabetes. One study, which found that obese children have lower vitamin D levels than non-obese children, also discovered that low vitamin D status was associated with other risk factors for diabetes in obese children.
Fish and fish oil, eggs, and fortified dairy and soy products are among the best sources of dietary vitamin D. You might also want to consider a supplement.
The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, included 411 obese children and 87 normal weight children. The children’s blood levels of vitamin D were tested to determine status and blood was also tested to assess their ability to control blood sugar levels. They and their parents also answered questions about their dietary habits.
Several important associations were seen in the results:
“As the number of obese children increases, pediatric providers must be aware of the higher rates of vitamin D deficiency seen in obese versus non-overweight children,” the study’s authors said. They further noted that their findings suggest that low vitamin D levels may play a role in the development of insulin resistance and diabetes.
Parents can help their children avoid obesity and prevent diabetes by encouraging healthy habits. Here are some practical steps, based on the results from this and previous studies, to promote good health in kids:
(J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012;97:online publication)