Rickets is a condition characteristic to first childhood and consists of insufficient calcification of bone tissue. As a consequence, growth disorders, bone pain, tight legs and sleep problems may occur.

The most common cause is vitamin D deficiency, which can result from a diet low in vitamin D, low sun exposure, celiac disease (gluten intolerance) and certain genetic disorders. Other factors that can lead to rickets are insufficient calcium or phosphorus.

Vitamin D helps absorb calcium and phosphorus from the gastrointestinal tract. When there is vitamin D deficiency, it is difficult for the bones to maintain an adequate level of phosphorus and calcium, which can cause the appearance of rickets.

The effects of rickets are:

1. Soft skull and bones
2. Muscle weakness accompanied by muscle spasms
3. Skeletal and spine deformities
4. Hypocalcemia (lack of calcium in the blood)

1. The diet rich in natural sources of vitamin D, such as salmon fish, mackerel and sardines, egg yolks, as well as in foods with added vitamin, such as whole grains, bread, yogurt and milk, helps both in the prevention and in the treatment of rickets.

2. In situations where there are not enough vitamins or minerals in the diet or there is a medical condition that prevents their absorption, one can take vitamin D and calcium supplements.

3. In some cases of deformities of the spine, it may be necessary to use special prostheses/corsets that help position and support the body, allowing the bones to grow correctly.

4. Surgery may be necessary in case of severe deformities, in order to correct them.

Higher risks appear in the following situations:

✓ Children aged between three months and three years, due to the rapid development of the skeletal bone

✓ Children with dark skin, who don’t react in the same way to sunlight and even tends to block UV rays compared to light-colored skin. This does not produce enough vitamin D

✓ Children who live in places where there is not much sun.

✓ Premature babies are more likely to develop rickets.

✓ Babies who are fed exclusively with breast milk may not have enough Vitamin D and is necessary to supplement with vitamin D, in the form of drops.

✓ Certain medications interfere with the body's ability to absorb/use vitamin D.