According to the article “25% of UK children are vitamin D deficient.”
Who does the article define as being in ‘at risk groups’?
The article defines “pregnant and breastfeeding women, children aged six months to five-years-old and the over-65s” in ‘at risk groups’.
What health issues does a lack of vitamin D lead to?
Vitamin D deficiency leads to many health issues such as; “diabetes, tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis as well as rickets - a disease that causes bones to become soft and deformed.”
What does the government claim about those with greatest need?
The government said “those with the greatest need already received free supplements.”
Is there any actual evidence that they have done this quoted in the article?
Prof Blair added: "The government's Healthy Start programme provides vitamins free to low income families and 'at risk' groups. “But these vitamins appear to be in short supply and uptake is low. Ensuring people are aware they're available is crucial."
Bonus question: Can you find and cite any evidence that the government has done what it claims in the article? Give the information and a reference to support this.
Yes they have produced leaflets in the college to make people aware of the risks of Vitamin D deficiency and to reduce the risks of being one of the people to be in a certain position of getting diseases from Vitamin D deficiency. “The college is to produce leaflets in a bid to raise awareness of vitamin D deficiency among the profession.” And they are trying to make food and drink have more Vitamin D in them instead of the vitamins being lost when being made. “In addition, the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) is looking into proposals for further fortification of food and drink, as happens in countries including the US, Canada and Finland.” Also there is a campaign being set up to help individuals be aware of the risks and how to prevent this. “The RCPCH is also calling for a public awareness campaign to raise awareness of the warning signs of vitamin D deficiency and how to prevent it.”
What evidence cited in the article leads experts to believe that children are not getting enough Vitamin D?
Some experts believe that 50 nanomoles per litre is argued because they think this is enough for good bones where as other experts believe 75 nanomoles per litre should be the correct amount as this tackles diabetes and MS. “Around 50 nanomoles per litre is argued for good bones, while some experts champion 75 nanomoles per litre for other conditions such as MS and diabetes, although this remains a source of debate.”
What solutions to the problem of lack of vitamin D have been suggested by different experts in the article?
Eating certain foods in your