New research suggests that children with low levels of Vitamin D may take longer to recover after breaking a bone.
This discovery was shared at the American Academy of Pediatrics 2024 National Conference & Exhibition, held in Orlando, Florida, from September 27 to October 1.
The study, called “Low Vitamin D Levels Are Associated with Longer Healing Times in Pediatric Fracture Patients,” looked at 186 cases of broken bones in children between 2015 and 2022. Researchers found that kids with low Vitamin D healed more slowly, whether or not they had surgery.
For instance, when children with low Vitamin D had leg fractures that didn’t need surgery, their healing time was about 20 days longer than usual.
Even more surprising, their X-rays showed signs of healing nearly two months later than expected. In cases where surgery was needed, recovery took about one month longer, and it took almost four more months for signs of healing to appear on X-rays.
This study highlights a new side of Vitamin D’s role—not just in preventing bone injuries but also in helping bones heal after they’re broken. Dr. Jessica McQuerry, the senior author of the study, stressed how important it is for children to get enough Vitamin D through their diet.
“Children need to be given well-balanced diets that include Vitamin D for overall health and to make sure when accidents do happen, they can heal appropriately,” she said.
Vitamin D is crucial for bone strength. It helps the body absorb calcium, which is needed to build and repair bones. You can find Vitamin D in dairy foods like milk, cheese, and yogurt, in fish, and in foods that have added Vitamin D, such as some breakfast cereals. Also, getting some sunshine helps the body produce Vitamin D naturally.
The researchers suggest that if your child has a broken bone that seems to be healing slowly, it might be worth checking their Vitamin D levels. Spending time outdoors could also help.
“Getting outside and enjoying the fresh air can do wonders for your health while also upping Vitamin D absorption,” said Dr. McQuerry. “It’s a great excuse to get outside and explore nature.”
This research shows how important it is to make sure children get enough Vitamin D. It’s not just about preventing health problems—it could also help them heal faster if they get injured.
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