Vitamin D for children

Children aged 1 to 4 years old should be given a daily dose containing 10 microgrammes of vitamin D throughout the year.

Vitamin D supplementation is advised for youngsters all year in Finland.

Throughout childhood and adolescence, the skeleton and teeth develop and strengthen. Vitamin D, like calcium, is essential for the creation of strong bones and teeth because it aids in the appropriate absorption of calcium and phosphorus, maintains normal blood calcium levels, and promotes bone and tooth health.

Furthermore, vitamin D helps the immune system work normally, strengthening the body’s defence against bacteria and viruses. A strong immune system also helps a youngster grow.

In Finland, children aged 0 to 17 are advised to take vitamin D supplements throughout the year. For small children (0-2 years), a supplement of 10 µg is recommended, while children and teenagers (2-17 years) should take a supplement of 7.5 µg.

The supplement should include a chemical form of vitamin D3 that is preferable to D2. D3 is a natural form in humans that is more effective than D2 at raising blood vitamin levels.

Children who are exposed to sunlight throughout the summer months have enough vitamin D3. Vitamin D3 is only found in fish, egg yolk, fortified milk and dairy products, and margarines, making dietary sources restricted.

If a child does not eat fish or only eats it on occasion, consumes tiny amounts of milk, or follows a vegetarian diet, obtaining the recommended quantity of vitamins from a diet is impossible, and the risk of developing vitamin deficiency is clear.

Explore our range of Vitamin D supplements for children.