A recent study in Boston found that about 25% of adolescents tested at a routine medical exam were deficient in vitamin D.  Vitamin D is essential for overall growth, development of strong bones, and calcium absorption.  Regular vitamin D is also necessary for prevention of osteoporosis and rickets, and some studies suggest that chronic deficiencies could also be linked to some cancers, diabetes, and high blood pressure.  

Researchers are surmising that the increase in the number of infants, children and adolescents who are deficient in this fat-soluble vitamin found in very few foods, is due to 1) increased use of sun screen which prevents vitamin D absorption from the sun 2) decreased amount of time outside playing and 3) decreased consumption of fortified milk.  Indeed, statistics indicate that children between the ages of 3 and 12 are only spending about 1.5% of their time in outside unstructured play activities (30 minutes each week).   

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children drink at least 17 ounces of vitamin D fortified milk per day, play outside at least 30 minutes per day, and supplement with 200 iu's vitamin D when necessary. 

With children often more interested in playing video games inside after a long day of school, it's more difficult to get them outside before it gets dark these days, particularly for parents who don't get home until 5p or 6p.   But remember, there are so many benefits to kids who play outside on a regular basis.  Here are just a few of them: 

A) Being outside in the sun improves mood and reduces irritability             

B) Of course, exercise, exercise, exercise.  Healthy bodies                             

C) Fresh air can help with asthma and cleanse lungs of dusty winter inside air pollutants

D) Playing with others outside improves problem-solving skills, team work, and social skills. 

E) Playing outside can improve sleep and regulate your child's biological clock

F) Contact with nature can improve attention spans and self control, and increase stress management skills

G) Outside play can improve concentration and academic performance