Many trauma patients are deficient in vitamin D
Americans who are concerned about their daily intake of essential vitamins and minerals can save money by purchasing cheap supplements from a Canadian internet pharmacy.
Americans who are concerned about their daily intake of essential vitamins and minerals can save money by purchasing cheap supplements from a Canadian internet pharmacy. One nutrient that is of particular concern in the medical community is vitamin D, which new research suggests can make a difference in recovering from traumatic injuries.
A team of scientists from the University of Missouri reviewed the medical records of 1,830 individuals, aged 18 years and older, who were treated in a trauma center.
Data analysis revealed that 39 percent of all patients were vitamin D deficient, while 38 percent did not have a deficiency, but still had nutrient levels that were considered insufficient. Although people aged 18 to 25 were less likely have these problems, 29 percent and 55 percent of subjects in this group had a deficiency or insufficient levels of the vitamin, respectively.
The results are important, "as vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased incidences of...bone breaks that fail to heal," according to researcher Brett Crist, MD. The researchers believe that optimal levels of this nutrient can help prevent and heal fractures.
Because it is hard to consume adequate amounts of vitamin D through the average diet, the scientists recommend supplementation. Adults need 1,000 International Units (IUs) of the nutrient, while children need between 400 and 800 IUs.
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