Interesting Facts About Rickets And Rickets Diet

Rickets is a serious disease, which is often seen in children in developing countries. A similar condition also occurs in adults. It involves the softening of the bones in the body, leading to deformities and frequent fractures. The main cause of this disease is the deficiency of Vitamin D in the body and the lack of calcium, which normally gives hardness to the bones. The disease is most common in young children who are suffering from malnutrition.

That is why it is common in places affected by natural disasters, which are followed by famine and starvation. The disease is not common in developed countries like the United States, but even so, it is wise to be aware and follow a healthy diet to make sure your child remains healthy.

Symptoms, Treatment And Diet For Rickets

Symptoms: Bone pain or tenderness is one of the first symptoms. Patients will have dental problems as well as muscle weakness. Rickets babies may have “floppy baby syndrome.” The bones fracture very easily in this disease as they are very soft. Patients also suffer from skeletal deformity, observed as bowed legs or knock knees. There may also be long term spinal deformities. Children also show a deformity called Craniotabes, or “soft skull.” Uncontrolled muscle spasms may be observed all over the body. The widening of the wrist is an early indicator of this disease. If you suspect that your child may have any of these symptoms, it is important that you immediately rush him or her to a paediatrician who can diagnose the disease and provide immediate treatment. If left untreated, these deformities will stay with a patient throughout his or her life.

Treatment and Diet: Diet is very important in the treatment and prevention of this disease. First and foremost, doctors recommend staying out in the sun to absorb ultraviolet B light. The sun encourages production of vitamin D. Other sources of vitamin D are fish oils, like cod liver oil and viosterol. Your doctor will prescribe medicines for rickets.

The body also needs to consume large amounts of calcium to harden the bones, while vitamin D allows the body to utilize this for the bones. Calcium rich foods like green vegetables and milk are very important. Spinach, asparagus, and carrots should be consumed. Children should also be fed meat and chicken for protein and calcium. Egg yolks are also a great source of nourishment.

Doctors may also suggest food supplements that contain vitamin D3. It is very important to closely follow the instructions of a doctor or health care professional when dealing with cases of rickets.

Submitted on January 16, 2014