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Vitamin D deficiencies linked to anemia

Category: Blood and Blood Diseases

A lack of vitamin D may contribute to anemia, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins Children's Center. Vitamin D, found in drinks like milk and orange juice as well as sunlight exposure, is linked to a variety of health benefits, so those who suspect low levels of the nutrient may want to consider a blood test to find out more.

Vitamin D and anemia
The study, published in the Journal of Pediatrics, found that there were strong links between vitamin D and hemoglobin, the protein that holds oxygen in red cells. Issues with hemoglobin often result in anemia, a condition in which bodily tissues do not receive enough oxygen. Those with anemia often feel fatigued and exhausted, so anyone with these symptoms may want to consider a lab test online to diagnose the problem.

The researchers found several possible links between vitamin D and anemia, one being that the nutrient affects the way that red blood cells are created in bone marrow. Vitamin D is also connected with regulating inflammation in the body, which is often linked to anemia as well. The study surveyed data from more than 10,400 kids in the United States, where estimates show that a large percentage of the population likely could be diagnosed with a vitamin D deficiency through a blood test.

The study found that kids with low levels of Vitamin D may be twice as likely to have anemia. While the research suggested a connection between anemia and a lack of vitamin D, more study is needed to be sure of the connection.

Vitamin D deficiencies in America
Previous studies have estimated that as many as 7 out of 10 children in America may have a vitamin D deficiency, while 1 out 10 have a severe case, noted Medical News Today. While many parents think that children who regularly play outside and drink milk have plenty of the vitamin, many American youths are still lacking.

Infants often have a lack of vitamin D, especially if they are bottle-fed. Infants who are bottle-fed should receive supplemental nutrition for vitamin D, which has been shown to help the body absorb calcium, phosphorus and other essential vitamins and minerals. Those who think that they or their children may be anemic should seek a lab test to be sure either way.