Kids aged between four and eight years need 800mg of calcium daily and those aged between 9 and 18 years need 1300mg daily, according to a surgeon at Burjeel Hospital for Advanced Surgery in Dubai, UAE.

“This can usually be achieved with a normal and healthy foods such as foods high in calcium include dairy products such as milk, yoghurt and cheese and leafy vegetables,” said Dr Michael Vohrer, paediatric orthopaedic surgeon, advising a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D and regular physical activity.

“The UAE receives 365 days of sunshine which is the best source of Vitamin D. Ten to twenty minutes of sun exposure daily are enough to receive the optimum level of Vitamin D. Encourage your child to ride a bicycle or kick a football around with friends every other day – this will ensure kids are active strengthening their bones.”

The recommended Vitamin D prevention doses is 400 Units Vitamin D per Day up to the age of one year, then 400 to 1000 Units Vitamin D per day up to the age of 18 years, he said.

If a child suffers from multiple fractures or sprains from mild injuries, Dr Vohrer advises a Vitamin D level test.

“We can see it with a normal blood test,” he continued. “If a child is found to have a low Vitamin D Level, either the activity level outside can be increased or the Vitamin D Level can be supported with supplements.” – TradeArabia News Service