prevention of rickets and osteomalacia
Rickets and osteomalacia are bone diseases caused by a lack of vitamin D and/or calcium. Vitamin D helps the body engross calcium from food, and calcium is essential for strong bones. Rickets occurs in children, while osteomalacia occurs in adults.
The best way to prevent rickets and osteomalacia is to get
enough vitamin D and calcium. This can be done by:
Eating a balanced diet that comprises foods that are rich in
vitamin D and calcium. Good sources of vitamin D include fatty fish, such as pink-orange
and tuna, eggs, and fortified foods, such as milk, cereal, and orange juice.
Good sources of calcium comprise dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and
tofu.
Spending time in sunlight. The sun's ultraviolet B (UVB)
rays help the body produce vitamin D. However, it is important to protect your
skin from the sun's harmful ultraviolet A (UVA) rays by wearing sunscreen,
protective clothing, and a hat.
Taking vitamin D and calcium supplements, if necessary. Talk
to your doctor about whether you or your child needs to take supplements.
Here are some specific recommendations for preventing
rickets and osteomalacia in different populations:
Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Pregnant and breastfeeding
women need more vitamin D than non-pregnant women. They should take a daily
supplement containing 400 IU of vitamin D.
Babies: Babies who are exclusively breastfed must be assumed
a daily supplement containing 8.5 to 10 mcg of vitamin D, starting from birth.
Babies who are formula-fed should receive vitamin D-fortified formula.
Children: Children aged 1 to 18 years should get 600 IU of
vitamin D daily.
Adults: Adults aged 19 to 70 years should get 600 IU of
vitamin D daily. Adults aged 71 years and older should get 800 IU of vitamin D
daily.
People with dark skin: People with dark skin have a harder
time producing vitamin D from sunlight. They may need to take a higher dose of
vitamin D supplements.
If you are concerned about your risk of rickets or
osteomalacia, talk to your doctor. They can test your vitamin D and calcium
levels and recommend the best way to prevent these diseases.
What nutrient deficiency causes rickets or osteomalacia? And, More About
Rickets and osteomalacia are bone diseases produced by a lack
of vitamin D & /or calcium.
Vitamin D deficiency is the most common reason of rickets &
osteomalacia. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that assistances the body
absorb calcium from food. It is also important for cell growth and immunity.
Calcium deficiency can also cause rickets and osteomalacia,
especially in children. Calcium is a mineral that is essential for strong bones
and teeth.
Other nutrient deficiencies that can contribute to rickets and osteomalacia include:
Phosphorus deficiency: Phosphorus is another mineral that is
important for bone health.
Magnesium deficiency: Magnesium helps the body absorb
calcium and phosphorus.
Zinc deficiency: Zinc is important for bone growth and
repair.
Rickets and osteomalacia can also be produced by sure
medical conditions, such as kidney disease, liver sickness, and celiac disease.
Treatment for rickets and osteomalacia typically involves
taking supplements of vitamin D, calcium, and other nutrients. Treatment is
most effective when started early.
Prevention of rickets and osteomalacia is the best way to
manage these conditions. This can be complete by eating a balanced diet,
getting enough sunlight, and taking supplements if necessary.
If you are concerned about your risk of rickets or
osteomalacia, talk to your doctor. They can test your nutrient levels and
recommend the best way to prevent or treat these diseases.
What are the symptoms of osteomalacia in rickets? And, More
Rickets and osteomalacia are two different bone diseases,
but they have many of the same symptoms. Osteomalacia is the adult form of
rickets, and it occurs when the bones do not properly mineralize. This can lead
to a number of health problems, including:
Bone pain and tenderness
Muscle weakness and fatigue
Difficulty walking
Bone fractures
Skeletal deformities, such as bowed legs and soft skull
bones
Dental problems, such as weak enamel and delayed tooth
eruption
In children with rickets, the symptoms may also include:
Slow growth and development
A waddling gait
Thickening of the ankles, wrists, and knees
A prominent forehead
The symptoms of osteomalacia and rickets can vary from
person to person, and they may be mild or severe. If you have any of the
symptoms listed above, it is important to see a doctor to get a diagnosis and
treatment.
Treatment for osteomalacia and rickets typically involves taking supplements of vitamin D, calcium, and other nutrients. Treatment is most effective when started early. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct skeletal deformities.
Prevention of osteomalacia and rickets is the best way to
manage these conditions. This can be done by eating a stable diet, getting
enough sunlight, and taking supplements if necessary.