WASHINGTON — Millions of U.S. children have disturbingly low vitamin D levels, possibly increasing their risk for bone problems, heart disease, diabetes and other ailments, according to two new studies.
Low vitamin D levels are especially common among girls, adolescents and people with darker skin, including African Americans, according to the analysis of a nationally representative sample of more than 6,000 children.
The researchers and others blamed the low levels on a combination of factors, including children spending more time watching television and playing video games instead of going outside, covering up and using sunscreen when they do go outdoors, and drinking more soda and other beverages instead of consuming milk and other foods fortified with vitamin D.
