To build strong bones, girls may need to start taking vitamin D supplements prior to early adolescence. In a recent study of 73 girls (ages 12 to 14), those who received four doses of 150,000 IU of vitamin D over the period of a year showed no significant improvement in bone health. According to the study's authors, this finding suggests that earlier supplementation is needed in order to make the most of peak bone-building years.

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorous, which in turn helps support the hardening of bones. Running low on vitamin D may lead to the development of osteoporosis, a condition marked by decreased bone density.

Although vitamin D is available in some foods (such as certain fish and fortified cereals), it's difficult to get your recommended daily intake solely through dietary sources. Your body can synthesize vitamin D during exposure to the sun's UVB rays, but getting too much sun can raise your risk of skin cancer. Therefore, many medical experts recommend taking a daily supplement in order to boost your levels of vitamin D.

For Strong Bones, Girls May Need Vitamin D At An Early Age originally appeared on About.com Alternative Medicine on Tuesday, August 31st, 2010 at 06:00:52.

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