Surf, sand, sun, and… vitamins?

Vitamin D is nicknamed “The Sunshine Vitamin” since exposure to the sun can help boost your levels.

But are we getting enough?

According to the Vitamin D Society, 97% of adults will experience a vitamin D deficiency at some point during the year.

And now, a new study conducted by The Hospital for Sick Children has found that a surprising one-third of Canadian toddlers also suffer from a deficiency.

Vitamin D is nicknamed "The Sunshine Vitamin" for good reason.

Doctor Jonathon Maguire is the lead author of the study, and he said a lack of vitamin D in children can heighten the risk for serious medical problems, including rickets, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and even certain types of cancer.

According to The Canadian Medical Association, children should be receiving 400 IU’s of Vitamin D per day to remain healthy, but it seems many of our children are not getting that amount.

“It’s concerning that these urban Canadian children may be at risk of vitamin D levels below the recommended amount,” said Maguire.

The study also found that kids who are more likely to have low vitamin D levels are also likely to drink less milk, have a high Body Mass Index (BMI), or watch TV while snacking. And parents, if you slather your children in sunscreen before they go outside (as most parents do!) then your kids could also be at risk for a deficiency.

The Canadian Pediatric Society strongly advises that breastfed infants receive vitamin D supplements to ensure they’re receiving the correct amount. It’s especially important to monitor vitamin D intake during the winter months, as we see less sunshine between October and April.

According to Maguire, there are no specific recommendations for supplementation in children older than a year – although there are recommendations for adults.

Canadian adults should be receiving 1,000 IU’s of vitamin D a day according to the Canadian Cancer Society. In the spring and summer months, spending 10-15 minutes in the sunlight should be enough, but a supplementation may be needed in the fall and winter. Individuals with dark skin or who don’t get outside often might want to consider year-round supplementation.

It’s a well-known fact that vitamin D has an important biological function – it helps our bodies absorb calcium, which keeps bones strong. But it also has other benefits, such as providing protection from cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, auto immune diseases, and high blood pressure.

Vitamin D can be found in fish, eggs, and milk – and of course, absorbed from the sunlight. But if your child is a picky eater, or you suspect they are not getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D you may want to consult your pediatrician. and consider the use of vitamin D supplements.