Vitamin D is prescribed to babies and their mothers, adolescents and athletes, the elderly and miners. It is not surprising that the pharmaceutical industry offers a wide range of cholecalciferol-containing products. Learn how not to get confused, choose the right option, avoid the unpleasant consequences of purchasing a pacifier or overdose. We present a rating of the best vitamin D preparations for children of different ages and adults.
Content
Vitamin D - value for the body
Vitamin D is a group name that unites five substances with similar structure and functions. Their main difference is in the degree of activity and the way they enter the body. The most active vitamins are D2 (ergocalciferol), D3 (cholecalciferol), they are the part of most drugs. Calciferols are fat-soluble; for their assimilation, a large amount of fat and bile is needed.
Synthetic analogues are less dependent on these parameters, therefore, if a diet with a strict restriction of fats is followed, diseases of the digestive system are better absorbed. Vitamin D not only comes from food, but is also synthesized in small quantities in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet rays.
Biological functions of vitamin D:
- regulates mineral metabolism;
- promotes the absorption of calcium in the small intestine;
- prevents the leaching of a trace element from bone tissue;
- acts as an immunoregulator;
- necessary for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland;
- normalizes blood clotting indicators;
- reduces excessive division of skin cells in psoriasis;
- prevents the occurrence of malignant neoplasms;
- reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, dementia;
- contributes to the normal course of pregnancy and the development of the child.
The daily requirement differs depending on age, increasing significantly with heavy physical exertion, during pregnancy and lactation.
| Age group | Daily requirement IU | Daily requirement mcg |
|---|---|---|
| 0-6 months | 300 | 10 |
| 6-12 months | 400 | 10 |
| 1-18 years old | 400-600 | 10-15 |
| 19-50 | 600-800 | 15-20 |
| over 50 | 800-1000 | 20-25 |
Signs of vitamin D deficiency
Erased or subclinical forms of calciferol deficiency are more common. The risk group includes:
- inhabitants of polar latitudes;
- the population of megacities with a high level of air pollution;
- people working the night shift;
- miners;
- subway employees;
- bedridden patients;
- pregnant and lactating women;
- old people;
- newborns born from October to April;
- vegetarians.
The child's body is more sensitive to vitamin D deficiency. The lack of a biologically active substance leads to the development of rickets.This is a disease of an actively growing, developing organism, associated with a violation of mineral metabolism (in particular calcium, magnesium, phosphorus), damage to the bones, nervous system, internal organs. First of all, the musculoskeletal system suffers. On examination, softening of the flat bones of the skull, late overgrowing of fontanelles, flattening, baldness of the occiput, deformation of the chest, curvature of the bones of the limbs, spine, and developmental delay are noted.
In adults, hypovitaminosis is manifested:
- osteoporosis and frequent fractures;
- insomnia;
- loss of appetite;
- decreased immunity;
- burning sensation in the mouth, throat;
- tooth decay;
- deterioration of vision.
Indications and contraindications for use
Vitamin D is used for prophylactic purposes or included in complex therapy as a separate component and combined with calcium. Calciferol-containing preparations are prescribed:
- for the prevention, treatment of rickets in children;
- for the prevention, treatment of osteoporosis, osteomalacia;
- to accelerate the healing of fractures;
- to correct the level of calcium and blood phosphate;
- with osteomyelitis;
- with violations of the thyroid, parathyroid glands;
- in the complex therapy of systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis;
- for the treatment of hemorrhagic diathesis;
- with muscular tetany;
- when taking glucocorticoids, cholestyramine, antiepileptic, antifungal, antiretroviral drugs;
- to reduce the manifestations of climacteric syndrome.
The use of any biologically active substance is limited by a number of contraindications. For vitamin D, these are:
- individual intolerance;
- hypercalcemia;
- hypervitaminosis D;
- active form of tuberculosis;
- renal osteodystrophy with hyperphosphatemia;
- severe form of atherosclerosis;
- organic pathology of the heart.
Important! Even if you do not have the listed contraindications, be sure to consult your doctor!
6 forms of vitamin D release
Today manufacturers produce calciferol preparations in 6 different forms:
- Tablets are solid, compressed form. Suitable for children over 1 year old and adults. Convenient to use due to a small dosage: for most popular brands, one tablet contains 200 IU of cholecalciferol.
- Drops - cholecalciferol solution is released on a water or oil basis. It is convenient to give to children under one year old. For the prevention of rickets, infants are prescribed an aqueous solution of a vitamin, as it is safer. The oil solution takes a little longer to digest, but in a more complete volume, it has a great biological value. Well suited for the treatment of rickets and osteoporosis.
- Capsules are a convenient dosage form consisting of a gelatinous shell and a liquid vitamin solution. Suitable for children over 3 years old and adults. Typically, one capsule contains 600 IU.
- Lozenges - in appearance and consistency resemble jelly candies, designed specifically for children, have a sweet taste, an interesting shape. They like children very much, but can cause an allergic reaction. If the baby takes them for candy, poisoning is guaranteed.
- Sprays - a new form for taking vitamins, can be found on iherb. Spray under the tongue, one spray contains the daily dose for an adult.
- Injection solutions are sterile water-based solutions for intravenous administration, used to treat osteomalacia in malabsorption and hypocalcemic tetany.
Vitamin D intake regimens3
Admission regimens depend on the purpose of admission, age, concomitant diseases, the form of release of the selected agent. For the prevention of hypovitaminosis, adults are recommended to take:
- 1 tablet 3 times a day;
- 1 capsule 1-2 times a day;
- 1 - 2 drops once a day.
For the prevention of rickets, an aqueous solution of a vitamin is prescribed to infants in the autumn-winter period from the third week of life for 500 IU a day (1-2 drops, depending on the drug). Children over 3 years old - 1 lozenge 1 time per day with meals.
Top 5 best vitamin D supplements for children from 0 to 3 years old
In pharmacies, you can find a large number of products containing vitamin D, with a mark from 0 years.Top 5 most popular manufacturers will help you choose an effective and safe drug:
AquaDetrim
On the fifth line of the rating, one of the most common and budgetary preparations AquaDetrim. Assign from 4 weeks of age. Average price: 190 rubles.
Advantages
- contains the natural form of the vitamin;
- water solution;
- high efficiency;
- 1 bottle of 10 ml is enough for 6 months, daily dose is 1 drop;
- affordable price.
disadvantages
- contains benzyl alcohol;
- often causes allergic reactions;
- a large list of side effects;
- inconvenient dispenser.
Materna, Tiptipot Vitamin D
On the fourth line is an oil solution of cholecalciferol from a well-known Israeli manufacturer. Average price: 540 rubles.
Advantages
- can be used from birth;
- convenient dispenser;
- daily dosage 1 drop;
- does not contain alcohol;
- the volume of the bottle is 15 ml;
- well tolerated
- can be diluted in water or breast milk.
disadvantages
- relatively high price;
- not always in stock.
GreenPeach
The third place in the ranking is taken by the water-based vitamin GreenPeach from the German manufacturer. Average price: 340 rubles.
Advantages
- completely natural product;
- does not contain artificial colors and flavors;
- rarely causes allergic reactions;
- convenient dispenser;
- detailed instructions for use.
disadvantages
- short shelf life.
ChildLife Essentials
In second place is the natural product ChildLife Essentials. Average price: 750 rubles.
Advantages
- large package 26 ml;
- pleasant aroma;
- high bioavailability;
- rarely causes side effects;
- convenient dispenser.
disadvantages
- high price;
- there is no instruction in Russian.
California Gold Nutrition, Baby Vitamin D3 Drops (400 IU)
California Gold Nutrition's Baby Vitamin D3 Drops is the top D3 supplement. Average price: 500 rubles.
Advantages
- natural preparation;
- allowed from birth;
- high bioavailability;
- side effects rarely occur;
- good dispenser;
- the bottle cap is securely closed.
disadvantages
- rarely available for sale, you need to order.
Top 5 best vitamin D supplements for children from 3 years old
During periods of active growth, children especially need additional body support with the help of vitamin supplements. The rating of the best vitamins for children over 3 years old and adolescents includes:
AquaDetrim
The fifth line of the rating is again occupied by AquaDtrim. Average price: 190 rubles.
Advantages
- affordable price;
- can be purchased at any pharmacy;
- well absorbed.
disadvantages
- it is not convenient to dose, often instead of 2 drops it turns out 3;
- allergic reactions often occur;
- many children do not like the taste and smell.
Vigantol
On the fourth line is an oil solution from a German manufacturer - Vigantol. The average price is 220 rubles.
Advantages
- high bioavailability;
- well absorbed;
- does not contain benzyl alcohol;
- has no smell;
- high-quality packaging.
disadvantages
- an overdose occurs quickly if the regimen is not followed;
- may cause allergic reactions.
Unipharm VitrumKids
In third place is a complex of vitamins for children from 3 to 7 years oldUnipharm VitrumKids. Average price: 450 rubles.
Advantages
- a convenient form of release - chewing gummies with a fruity taste in the form of bears;
- good protective cap;
- dosage of 1 lozenge per day;
- detailed instructions;
- various packing from 3 to 100 pieces.
disadvantages
- a very large list of active substances, some of them are not absorbed;
- may cause allergic reactions;
- Strong smell.
Multi Tabs D-tipat D3-vitamiini
In second place is a vitamin preparation from Denmark Multi Tabs D-tipat D3-vitamiini ... Average price: 300 rubles.
Advantages
- good bioavailability;
- side effects rarely occur;
- does not contain lactose, gluten, yeast, sugar;
- convenient dispenser;
- there is an analogue for children from 12 years old in the form of lozenges.
disadvantages
- seldom available.
Calcium-D3 Nycomed Forte
In the first place is a complex preparation containing calcium and cholecalciferol Calcium-d3-Nycomed forte. Average price: 350 rubles.
Advantages
- monocomplex of calcium and D3;
- D3 is absorbed from the drug by 80%;
- convenient form of release in the form of chewing lozenges with orange, lemon and mint flavor;
- three types of packing of 30,60 and 120 pieces.
disadvantages
- weak protection from children.
Top 5 best vitamin D supplements for adults
Additional intake of vitamin D is required not only for children, but also for their parents. Supplements are prescribed for the prevention of osteoporosis, with heavy physical exertion, for bodybuilders. There are a huge number of drugs that can be taken prophylactically. The rating of the best manufacturers will help you make your choice.
Alpha D3-Teva
On the fifth line of the rating are Alpha D3-Teva peanut butter capsules. Average price: 300 rubles for 30 capsules of the minimum dosage.
Advantages
- convenient form of release in capsules;
- well absorbed;
- three dosage options of 0.25, 0.5 and 1 μg;
- compact, easy to take with you;
- long shelf life;
- can be taken during pregnancy under medical supervision.
disadvantages
- in 10% of cases, allergic reactions and side effects occur;
- not available in all pharmacies.
21st Century Health Care Liquid Calcium 1200mg + Vitamin D3
On the fourth line of the ranking is a complex drug with calcium and cholecalciferol 21st Century Health Care Liquid calcium 1200 mg + D3. Average cost: 1100 rubles.
Advantages
- large package - 90 capsules;
- high bioactivity;
- good absorption of calcium and D3;
- convenient form of release - small gel capsules;
- does not contain sugar, artificial colors
disadvantages
- not in pharmacies, only to order;
- the instruction is in English only.
In third place is the budget complex with calcium and calciferol Complivit Calcium D3 Forte. Average price: 230 rubles.
Advantages
- convenient form of chewable tablets;
- good digestibility;
- neutral smell and taste;
- quality packaging
- availability.
disadvantages
- allergic reactions are possible;
- weak protection from children.
Davisol Drops
In second place is the dietary supplement from Orion Pharma Davisol Drops 10 ml. Average price: 400 rubles.
Advantages
- well absorbed;
- preparation based on coconut oil;
- one bottle is enough for 2.5 months;
- complex with vitamin E;
- convenient dispenser;
- does not cause allergic reactions with rare exceptions;
- does not have a pronounced taste and smell.
disadvantages
- can be purchased only on order through online pharmacies;
- people with gastrointestinal disease after taking a short-term feeling of discomfort.
Vitrum Osteomag
The leader of the rating is a complex of cholecalciferol and minerals from Unipharm Vitrum Osteomag. Average price: 400 rubles.
Advantages
- well absorbed;
- optimal set of minerals;
- can be purchased at most pharmacies;
- convenient packaging.
disadvantages
- the tablets are somewhat large, it is inconvenient to swallow;
- cover without child protection;
- sometimes it can cause nausea, flatulence.
Signs of an overdose of drugs with vitamin D
An excess of cholecalciferol is just as dangerous as a lack of it. Hypervitaminosis can appear suddenly, with a single intake of a large amount of a biologically active substance, or develop gradually over a long time. In children under three years of age, an overdose is manifested:
- a decrease in appetite up to a complete rejection of food;
- drowsiness, lethargy;
- intense thirst that is difficult to quench;
- dry skin, mucous membranes;
- decrease in heart rate;
- nausea, frequent vomiting;
- increased urination.
Severe cases may be accompanied by convulsions, loss of consciousness. Chronic hypervitaminosis will affect the early ossification of foci of growth of the bone system, disruption of the kidneys, liver, and cardiovascular system.
In adults, an overdose is manifested by nausea, diarrhea, hypercalcemia, impaired renal filtration function, increased blood pressure, cardiopathy, and cardioneurosis.
How to choose a drug with vitamin D
It is best to buy vitamins from drugstores. You can ask the pharmacist to show you supporting documents, instructions, read contraindications. Be sure to pay attention to the shelf life, for most dosage forms with vitamin D it is no more than three years. Examine the packaging, make sure it is intact, and there are protective films. You can buy vitamins from an online pharmacy or order through a specialized website.
do not buy vitamins from strangers by hand! you can buy a pacifier or poison!
Preparations containing vitamin D will be good support for both the child's body during periods of active growth and for adults. Before use, it is advisable to take an analysis for the content of vitamin and calcium in the blood serum and consult a doctor. Observe the dosage, do not forget to check the expiration date of dietary supplements and be healthy.
In winter, since there is a lack of sun, I take Aquadetrim, the dispenser is really inconvenient, but I am attracted by the price and economical use of funds. Previously, I took calcium d3 nikomed forte, but ended up due to the high cost (although calcium carbonate is in the composition, and, even, not citrate) and the rapid expenditure of funds. I decided - I'd rather eat milk to get calcium, and d3 in the form of drops.