IBD, or irritable bowel disease, includes both Crohn's Disease and Ulcerative Colitis (UC). Children with IBD have a variety of health conditions related to poor nutrient absorption. A recent study published in Pediatrics found that these children are at increased risk for Vitamin D deficiency.
Crohn's disease affects the upper part of the large intestine, while UC primarily affects the lower part, but can affect the whole large intestine. Both conditions result in damage to the intestinal wall. Children with IBD experience severe symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, and blood in their stool.
Researchers investigated more than 130 children age 8-18 with IBD. They took measurements of Vitamin D in their blood as well as parathyroid hormone, a chemical that helps regulate Vitamin D in the body. They also did bone density scans of the hip and lower spine.
Vitamin D is involved in many processes in the body from the immune system to bone health. However, one of the most important roles is bone metabolism. It helps mineralized the bones to allow for proper strenght. Vitamin D deficiency can result in osteomalacia, or weak bones, in children. It can increase the risk for fractures and for osteoporosis later in life.
Forty-five children in the study were found to have Vitamin D deficiency, with 11 percent of those having severe deficiency. Children with UC had similar results to those with Crohn's. There was no effect on parathyroid hormone.
As expected bone mineral density was related to Vitamin D status. Children who had a longer duration of the disease also had lower levels of Vitamin D as did those with darker skin and those who lived in less sunlight.
The authors did not determine the mechanism, but perhaps it is related to decreased absorption of Vitamin D and its precursors. Children who have IBD should be screened for Vitamin D deficiency because of the major health implications this deficiency can have.
Posted by Dr. Christina Gutierrez on December 11, 2006 12:55 PM
