The Effectiveness of a Weight-dependent Algorithm for Dosing Vitamin D.

Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption and bone growth, brain development, and immune system function. Vitamin D is produced by the body in response to natural sunlight. In New Jersey, which is not near the equator and where children are indoors for large parts of the year or use of sun block, it is possible that otherwise healthy children may suffer from vitamin D deficiency, placing them at risk for weak bones, fractures and poor bone growth. Larger children are at a higher risk of deficiency. This research is being conducted to identify children in this group with Vitamin D deficiency and determine the amount of vitamin D supplementation necessary for them daily using a protocol developed.