Unveiling the Korean 15-Step Stem Cell Scalp Treatment for Ultimate Hair Health

The Korean 15-step stem cell scalp treatment is a groundbreaking approach to achieving optimal hair health, blending advanced science with meticulous care. This innovative regimen focuses on revitalizing the scalp, the foundation for vibrant and resilient hair. By integrating stem cell technology, the treatment stimulates cellular regeneration, promoting healthier follicles and combating issues such as thinning and hair loss. Each step is carefully designed to cleanse, nourish, and rejuvenate, addressing both aesthetic and structural concerns. Popular for its comprehensive and transformative results, this method represents the pinnacle of modern haircare, offering a luxurious and effective solution for individuals seeking lasting hair vitality.

Dr Shrilekha Shringarpure, Aesthetic Doctor & Trichologist and co-founder & Head, The Preserve Clinic, Mumbai shares all you need to know.

This 15-step stem cell treatment is one of most comprehensive scalp treatments as it treats various scalp issues ranging from oily, dry and flaky scalp, which in most cases is the root cause of acute hair fall and hair loss. The treatment focuses on removing accumulated dirt, excess sebum and keratin and product build-up from the scalp to create the perfect foundation for healthy hair growth, and produce a clean, healthy scalp.

The treatment incorporates medical grade products containing plant-based ingredients alongside human stem cell culture extract, known for effective hair loss and hair fall prevention. This meticulous process takes 60-90 mins to complete treating various scalp issues such as dry and flaky scalp due dandruff and psoriasis, oily and inflamed scalp due to Seborrheic dermatitis, which is the leading cause of hair fall in young and old patients alike.

The treatment starts with a microscopic scalp analysis (in which an image of the patient’s hair follicles appears digitally enlarged on a screen) showing whether your scalp is too dry? Or too oily? Or perhaps there is excess keratin or product build-up that show the need for a deeper cleanse (using heavy hair styling products or dry shampoos or skipping a clarifying shampoo can lead to this issue). This is followed by various cervical trapezius & lymphatic massages using biocurrents on the neck, head and scalp.

Massage opens up the hair follicles, allowing the for the rest of the treatment’s steps to work at optimum level. It also reduces tightness and tension in the body, relaxes the muscles and improves blood circulation to the scalp promoting overall scalp and facial health.

One of the treatment’s distinguishing steps is the use of galvanic LED sealing brush, which emits a gentle continuous electric current to soften and emulsify sebum and keratin in the hair follicle. The brush also emits a combination of red and blue LED light on the scalp. Red light increases cell turnover, whereas blue light kills scalp-acne causing bacteria. Last but not the least, Steam and gentle water pressure through the use of the Japanese Yume headbath waterfall tool (another highlighting step that most patients wait for) known for its therapeutic effect, finally rinses the hair and scalp clean. The treatment concludes with a reanalysis of the scalp, a hair regrowth tonic containing stem cell culture fluid, and styling.

Here are all the steps for the Stem Cell Scalp Treatment:

• Scalp Diagnosis & CounsellingDiagnosing the patient’s scalp and pore condition, followed by customized treatment program introduction.
• Scalp Aroma TherapyApplication of aroma oil based serum on scalp type to relieve stress, remove accumulated dirt, and prevent hair loss.
• Bionic LED BrushingUsing an LED brush to absorb aroma serum, relax the scalp, improve blood circulation, and remove waste from the scalp.
• Pore Deep CleansingDeep pore cleansing using an acidic peeling agent with natural peppermint, rosemary, and fruit acid extracts.
• Scalp MistingApplication of low-temperature mist to warm the scalp and enhance the absorption of aromatic oils and cleansing agents.
• Cervical Trapezius MassageA massage using aromatic oil and biocurrent to relax the shoulders and neck, improving blood flow to the scalp.
• Derma Lymphatic MassageA lymphatic massage using warm biocurrents to relax muscles, release toxins, and promote scalp and facial health.
• Stem Cell ShampooCleansing with a scalp care shampoo containing human stem cell culture fluid, biotin, menthol, and panthenol.
• Y Stick MassageDeep cleansing of the scalp using a galvanic Y rod during shampoo application to remove dead skin cells and impurities.
• Yume Head Bath Scalp Healing SPA A healing spa with lukewarm water and aromatherapy to relieve stress and moisturize the scalp.
• Scalp Collagen Pack Application of a collagen and peppermint extract pack to soothe and hydrate the scalp.
• Hair Dryer Drying the scalp with a cold blow dryer to about 70%, maintaining nutrient absorption.
• Spray the Human NK Immune TonicApplication of a scalp tonic containing Kopexil, human stem cell culture fluid, and B vitamin complex for hair regrowth
• T-Stick InfusionUse of a galvanic T stick to increase nutrient absorption by approximately 189 times compared to normal application.
• FinishingTaking post-treatment scalp photos, reviewing the scalp’s condition with the patient , and finishing with styling.

Arthritis: Causes, Early Symptoms And Prevention

The umbrella term ‘arthritis’ refers to the joint conditions involving pain, inflammation and mobility restriction of one or more than one joint. This condition is no longer restricted to elderly, rather it affects millions of people globally belonging to all age groups. The most common types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Dr.Pulak Vatsya, M.B.B.S, M.S., DNB, Consultant sports orthopedics and robotic joint replacement shares the cause of arthritis, symptoms and prevention.

Causes of arthritis 

1. GeneticsRheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are usually seen in those who have a family history. There are specific genes in the body cells that cause autoimmune inflammatory responses and these get inherited from the parents to their children.
2. AutoimmunityRA and PsA usually occur when the body’s immune cells directly damage the healthy cells of the body, especially the joints, causing pain and inflammation. Those individuals who are genetically prone to arthritis, can get an immune response triggered following some stress or infection.
3. AgingOsteoarthritis progresses with advancing age as the cartilage between the bone joints wears down as the body ages, causing bone to bone rubbing and pain and inflammation. Also genetic inheritance, overweight, obesity and any injury further accelerates OA.
4. InjuryAny sports or accidental injury to the joint can damage the cartilage and lead to OA. Also if extra mechanical stress is put on the affected joints such as by heavy weight lifting or repetitive movement, it will lead to more inflammation and pain.
5. Overweight and obesityAny individual having more than target weight is more prone to arthritis as extra body weight puts pressure on the hips, knees or spine. So the cartilage of these bones is at a higher risk of wear and tear and fat tissue is responsible for production of inflammatory compounds that trigger arthritis.
6. Metabolic disorderCertain metabolic disorders such as gout is a form of arthritis that is triggered by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints.

Symptoms of arthritis

1. Joint painThe first and foremost visible sign of arthritis is joint pain which occurs on a particular movement of the joint or if any body part/joint is moved after long inactivity. One characteristic feature of RA is joint stiffness for at least 30 minutes after waking up.
2. Swelling and inflammationThe affected joints may feel swollen or red and also generate some heat. In the case of RA or PsA, the immune cells attack the cells of the joint and cause swollen areas.
3. Limited movementThe affected joint becomes very hard to move and individuals may face issues even on slightest activity of daily life such as walking, gripping, stretching out arm etc.
4. Systemic symptomsRA and PsA are autoimmune arthritis and before joint pain, these arthritis show other systemic responses such as fever, tiredness, loss of appetite etc. These symptoms help in early detection of these types of arthritis.

Prevention strategies for arthritis

1. Weight managementFor dealing with arthritis, body weight should be maintained as extra weight especially on the weight-bearing joints such as knees, hips or spine can trigger arthritis by cartilage breakdown.
2. Regular monitoringThose individuals who are at high risk of arthritis such as overweight or obese subjects, those at genetic predisposition, elderly individuals etc. should get regular health check-ups and also certain diagnostic blood tests to measure inflammation. These include ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein).
3. Stress managementMost of the autoimmune conditions are related with stress and this makes stress an important causative factor behind both RA and PsA. So for better joint health, engage in yoga, meditation or breathing exercises for alleviating stress.
4. Refrain from smoking and drinkingArthritis prevention needs lifestyle modification which includes staying away from smoking and alcohol drinking. Smoking is associated with symptoms worsening and lowered treatment response, while alcohol triggers uric acid accumulation in the joints, thereby leading to gout.
5. Anti-inflammatory dietHave a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as nuts and seeds etc., whole grains as well as antioxidants such as berries, green leafy vegetables etc. Such a diet helps to reduce pain and inflammation.

Early detection and management of symptoms can prevent arthritis progression and limit joint pain and injury. Also lifestyle modifications such as physical exercise, healthy diet and cessation of smoking and drinking can prevent arthritis in at-risk group too.

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Opinion | Why We Should Not Siphon the Sacredness Out of Our Plate

Food is both an aspect and a form of God (Annam Parabrahma Swaroopam). In India, we begin with the highest realisation of anything and then proceed to its more practical or workable level. We do this so that our focus remains on the highest possible attainment. This is how we regard our food in this country – as an aspect of God.

This week marks ‘National Nutrition Week’, organised by the Ministry of Women and Child Development of India. Like many other important topics, the subject of food and nutrition has also been hijacked by various international organisations, which issue recommendations on how many calories, fats, sugars, etc., should be consumed daily. For them, nutrition is limited to these aspects. With such a fragmented outlook, they have stripped the sacredness from our plate, reducing it to merely a heap of ‘commercial products’ that either sustain our bodies or satisfy our taste buds.

According to Bharat’s ancient understanding, food and nutrition is not approached in this way. There are many deeper aspects of food that we need to comprehend. So, during this National Nutrition Week, let us look at food and nutrition holistically.

Why consume local and seasonal food?

The reason is that our bodies and our digestive fire are not static; they change with the seasons. The concept of nutrition is not just about the caloric value of food but also about our body’s capacity to absorb the required or maximum nutrition from the food we consume. Our bodies are in harmony with nature, so if we consume more locally grown food (grown in the environment in which we live), our bodies will be able to extract better nutrition from it. The same principle applies to consuming seasonal food.

Eat for nutritional value, not just for taste

Did you know that Indian millets offer much more nutrition and actually taste better than the standard wheat or rice that have dominated the market? It is simply that some commercial interests began labelling white rice and white wheat as the food of the wealthy or superior people, and gradually, they became status symbols, and the masses acquired a taste for them. Fortunately, many people are now realising this and returning to their traditional millets. Apart from great taste, high nutritional value, and low cost, these millets also have a much smaller environmental footprint.

No processed food

Processed food has infiltrated our kitchens. Remember our childhood? There was almost no processed food, and lifestyle diseases were virtually non-existent. It seems there is a strong connection between the two. Consider a simple example: when we prepare a chapati at home, if we do not refrigerate it, it spoils within 24 hours, especially during the monsoon season. However, the bread we buy from the market remains fresh for 3-5 days, even when left out in the open. There must be something in that bread that is very harmful to bacteria and fungi, which is why they do not consume it. If it is harmful to those organisms, it is likely not very nourishing for our bodies either—something to ponder.

Over-Eating, Under-Nutrition

Most urban people today suffer from diseases due to over-eating. This means that people are consuming much more than their bodies can digest, yet when they have medical tests done, multiple nutritional deficiencies are found. This simply indicates two things: a) their bodies are not able to extract all the nutrition from the food they consume, and b) their food lacks the right nutrition (read processed food here).

Food Does Not Provide All the Nutrition

There is so much emphasis on food, but we often forget that many other important elements contribute to our body’s overall nutritional needs:

• Water – Are we really drinking enough water? Is the quality of our water truly good? It’s not just about cleanliness; we need to drink water that is rich in electrolytes.
• Nature – Do we connect with nature? Do we walk on the ground, absorb sunlight directly, breathe fresh air, and embrace the sky?
• Exercise – The more we make our bodies work, the better they will be able to extract nutrition from the food we eat, the water we drink, the air we breathe, and the sunlight we absorb.
• Rest – Do we give our bodies adequate rest? This means ensuring good sleep, resting the digestive system through fasting, and meditating to calm our overactive minds

State of mind

What is our state of mind when we consume food? The same food can become medicine for us if we consume it with a certain focus and in a certain state of mind. Conversely, the same food can create more toxicity in our system if we eat it in a rush, while talking, being absent-minded, or in an agitated state of mind. That is why it is very important to eat:

• Mindfully
• In a relaxed state of mind
• Slowly
• Quietly
• Chewing properly

Food is God

In India, we have always said Annam Parabrahma Swaroopam, meaning the food we consume becomes our body, mind, and emotions. This food is a manifestation of God. Food is not just a product or a thing; it is divinity on a plate. When we treat our food this way, every morsel becomes Prasadam, and apart from filling our stomachs, it also nourishes our souls.

So, during this National Nutrition Week, let’s consider these important aspects of food and provide our bodies with the optimum nutrition required. I am sure this will keep our bodies strong, minds healthy, emotions balanced, and souls fulfilled.

The author is a visionary, spiritual master, humanitarian, leadership mentor, and public speaker. He works in the areas of creating awakened leaders, bringing consciousness to education and running regular spiritual talks and retreats. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect .

Healthy Snacking: Busting Myths Around Cost, Taste, and Convenience

Healthy snacking is often seen as an expensive, tasteless, and time-consuming endeavor, yet experts in nutrition and wellness are quick to dispel these misconceptions.

Kommal Vishant, a nutritionist, explains how accessible healthy snacking can be when approached strategically. “People often believe that healthy snacking means spending a lot of money, but this isn’t necessarily true," she says. In her experience, some of the most nutritious snacks are quite affordable if chosen carefully. Nuts and seeds, for instance, offer essential nutrients like healthy fats, protein, and vitamins—and buying them in bulk can significantly cut costs. She also highlights that seasonal produce is generally cheaper than processed snacks, making fresh fruits and vegetables an excellent and budget-friendly option.

“Most things masquerading as ‘health foods’ in supermarkets are more costly simply because of packaging or branding, not their nutritional value," adds Vishant. A simple apple with a handful of almonds, she notes, can be as nutritious and satisfying as any branded snack—at a fraction of the price.

Taste is another common sticking point, with many people assuming that healthy snacks are bland or unappetizing. Dr Manmohan Singh, MD of Medical Affairs, challenges this myth, noting that healthy snacks can be bursting with flavor. “There’s a widespread myth that healthy snacks are rather bland," he observes.

“But healthy snacks can come in an incredibly wide range of flavors and textures." Singh suggests simple combinations like hummus with vegetables or yogurt parfaits topped with fruits and nuts, which offer satisfying tastes and textures without added sugars or artificial preservatives. The flavors of herbs, spices, or a touch of natural sweetness from honey or cinnamon can transform simple snacks into delicious options. Dr Singh believes that the idea of healthy snacks as tasteless staples, such as plain rice cakes or raw vegetables, is outdated. With a bit of creativity, people can discover flavorful, nutritious snacks that are as enjoyable as they are wholesome.

For those concerned about the time investment, Pathik Patel, founder, Fit and Flex, emphasizes that healthy snacking doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. “One of the biggest misconceptions about healthy snacking is that it’s hard to fit into a hectic lifestyle," says Patel. He explains that many nutrient-dense snacks, like pre-cut veggie sticks, protein smoothies, or snack bars, can be prepared in minutes and are easy to carry on the go. For Patel, healthy snacking is about making simple, intentional choices that align with long-term wellness goals. “Once people realize that good decisions are indeed possible and achievable, they’ll be much more likely to incorporate them into their everyday lives," he affirms.

Together, these experts reveal that healthy snacking can be affordable, flavorful, and convenient. With mindful choices, anyone can make nutritious snacking a realistic part of their daily routine.

How to Maximize Muscle Growth with Proper Nutrition?

Gaining muscle is not just about hitting the gym and lifting weights but it’s also about incorporating the right nutrition that helps one to achieve desired goals. Nutrition is vital to muscle repair, growth, and recovery, with the proper amount of protein at the right time. Muscles are stressed, and as a result, microtears occur in the muscle fibers. Kinetic energy is responsible for these microtears, which glue the fibrous tissues and repair them. Not all proteins are the same, and even with some proteins, the timing, quality, and dosage have to be considered when aiming at increasing muscle tissues. In addition to protein, they provide carbohydrates, lipids, and water, all of which are required for the muscle-building process to be successful.

Anupama Nair, Nutritionist, Denzour Nutrition, states, “The first step towards boosting the muscles is finding the right protein support. For individuals whose aim is to develop muscles, protein intake during the course of treatment is prescribed to enhance the repair and recovery processes of muscles after every workout. Our primary goal lies in creating protein formulas that can be quickly and easily digested to allow for the immediate repair of muscle tissues and also a slow release of protein to promote muscle building throughout the day. These enhancers are not simply a plus, since they also provide the necessary components that combine with serious training for tangible results. Also, the factor of time is very important; when you begin to incorporate quality protein into your diet regularly, your muscles begin to grow and strengthen over the years, thus aiding recovery and eventually muscle growth."

If a person makes an effort to train in conjunction with proper protein support, they will begin to see changes in the size and performance of their muscles in a confident manner, and this allows them to push their fitness level for prolonged periods without any fear of regression. This insight emphasizes how a structured approach to protein intake, alongside a consistent commitment to both training and nutrition, can help you unlock your full muscle-building potential.

Vijay Kumar, Fitness and wellness coach, Bengaluru, shares, “Build muscle not just by lifting weights but through the tight coordination of training and diet planning. Muscle growth begins with the appropriate nutrition that nourishes performance and recovery thereof. Proteins are basic building blocks of muscle tissues, and they should be taken sufficiently, about 1.6 to 2.2 grams per kilogram, to assist in muscle repair and growth. It is suggested that carbohydrates help refill glycogen stores and energy levels during heavy workouts, whereas healthy fats assist in hormone regulation, including some that affect testosterone levels, and thus contribute to muscle growth."

Proper timing of nutrition can also amplify results: eating protein along with other meals during the day, especially after a workout, promotes muscle protein synthesis. Hydration is equally important because muscle cells depend on water for their function and recovery. “Above all, don’t skimp on micronutrients because vitamins and minerals facilitate metabolic acts integral to muscle repair and growth. An optimized nutrition plan along with regular strength training creates the synergy required for a long-term increase in muscle mass. After all, nutrition represents the fuel allowing muscle growth, and at the same time, without it, even the toughest workouts will fail to bring results," adds Kumar.

Gaining muscles is not only a matter of spending a lot of time in the gym but also holistically incorporates nutrition. Muscles can only grow to the extent of the training level that a person adheres to, but the intake of what one eats goes a long way in muscle development.

Protein is the most vital nutrient needed in the construction and repair of muscle tissues; however, it is also important to note that one needs to incorporate enough carbohydrates, healthy oils, and fluids to prepare for and recover from exercises. Carbs help in providing the energy needed during vigorous sessions, whereas fats are important for the production of hormones and improving the general well-being of an individual.

Nutrition goes hand in hand with training, which creates an enabling environment for the repair and growth of muscles. A well-structured nutrition regime emphasizing protein timing and quality by supplements as well as an adequate workout program helps in optimizing muscle gains over time.

Ayurveda’s Holistic Path to Diabetes Management: Beyond Symptom Control

 In Ayurveda, diabetes, or Madhumeha, is not simply a condition marked by high blood sugar; it is a signal of deeper imbalances within the body. Ayurveda considers diabetes to be part of a broader category called Prameha, which can be of twenty types – 4 types can crop up because of Vata Dosha (air and space element), 6 occur because of Pitta Dosha (fire and water element) and 10 because of Kapha Dosha (water and earth element) imbalance. Individuals who take excess of Shita (cold), Madhur (sweet), Snigdha (oily), Medya (fatty), Dravya (solids) & Paana (Liquids) for a long time are at a greater risk of developing Prameha disorders. Among these, Madhumeha (Kapha-Vata dominant) shares similarities with modern-day Diabetes Mellitus. By taking a holistic approach, Ayurveda provides a pathway to effectively manage diabetes, focusing on restoring balance rather than merely controlling blood sugar levels.

The role of lifestyle and diet in diabetes

A sedentary lifestyle, known in Ayurveda as Asyasukham (pleasure derived from inactivity), and Swapna Sukham (excessive sleep) are major contributors to Madhumeha. When coupled with a diet rich in Madhura Rasa and Gudavikara, i.e. excessive intake of sweet substances or sugar-based products, these habits disrupt the body’s Agni, or digestive fire. Agni’s role is crucial—it metabolizes nutrients, clears toxins, and maintains the body’s balance. If Agni weakens, undigested food accumulates, creating Ama (toxins) that slow glucose metabolism and strain the Agnashya (pancreas), impeding insulin production and increasing blood sugar levels.

Certain foods, especially Kapha-promoting items like dairy products and high-glycaemic grains, are also problematic. Overconsumption of heavy or unseasoned foods can clog Srotas (micro-channels), reducing the body’s ability to process sugar efficiently. To mitigate these effects, Ayurveda recommends avoiding Abhishyandi items such as excessive curd, deep-fried foods, and meats from marshy animals, which increase Kapha, block Srotas, and raise the likelihood of developing diabetes.

Ayurveda’s insights on diabetes progression

In Ayurveda, two concepts, Avarana (encapsulation) and Dhatukshaya (tissue depletion), are central to understanding how Madhumeha (diabetes) progresses. Avarana occurs when Kapha Dosha blocks essential bodily channels leading to obstruction of free flow of Vata in the body (air+space element), while Dhatukshaya—associated with Vata Dosha Prakopa—leads to the breakdown of tissues. This explains why we observe weight gain in Type 2 diabetes (linked to Kapha Dosha accumulation) and muscle loss in Type 1 diabetes (Vata Dosha aggravation causing debility and dryness). Ayurveda thus encourages lifestyle practices and dietary choices that promote circulation, maintain Agni, and prevent Kapha build-up to control Madhumeha.

Ayurvedic recommendations for managing diabetes

Ayurvedic management of Madhumeha goes beyond glucose control by incorporating a disciplined lifestyle, mindful eating, and herbal support. Ayurveda recommends a diet rich in grains like barley and millet, along with legumes such as lentils, which support Agni, the digestive fire crucial for metabolism. In general, bitter-tasting foods such as karela and neem are generally considered beneficial for reducing Kapha dosha and purifying the blood. Physical activity, including yoga and daily walks, promotes circulation and natural cleansing. Herbs like turmeric, methi (fenugreek), and fruits like jamun and amla aid blood sugar balance and inflammation. Meditation practices such as transcendental meditation helps manage stress and hormones, which are vital in keeping a balance of Kapha and Vata doshas. Avoiding Kapha-aggravating foods like excessive dairy and fried items further supports digestion and blood sugar stability.

Ayurveda views diabetes as a complex condition that requires a holistic, lifestyle-based approach rather than quick fixes. Through a balanced diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and specific herbs, one can address diabetes sustainably. This holistic approach not only manages symptoms but also seeks to create lasting well-being by addressing underlying imbalances within the body. With Ayurveda’s principles, individuals can find a path to health that supports balance and resilience, making diabetes management a journey of both physical and mental transformation.

With inputs by : Dr. Rini Vohra Shrivastava PhD., Scientific Advisor – Maharishi Ayurveda

Seasonal Vitamin D Deficiency In Kids: Causes, Symptoms And Sources

 

As the days grow shorter and the sun hides behind clouds, a silent threat looms over our children: Vitamin D deficiency. This essential vitamin, often referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin,’ plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. Vitamin D is also important as it regulates mental health.

In children, the lack of vitamin D deficiency leads to premature ageing and a weak immune system. McGill University’s research study, published in Science Advances, shows that this seasonal deficiency of Vitamin D can have substantial and long-lasting consequences, especially for children. The study builds upon the findings of a 2001 study from Finland, which discovered that kids who received vitamin D supplementation early in life had up to a five-fold reduced risk of developing Type 1 diabetes in the future.

Let’s explore the causes, symptoms, and sources of vitamin D for this common wintertime concern:

Vitamin D Deficiency: Causes

There are two main causes of vitamin D deficiency in kids. Firstly, when the child is not getting enough vitamin D in their diet and/or through sunlight. There may be chances that his/her body isn’t properly absorbing or using vitamin D. This may be due to certain medical conditions, the amount of melanin (pigment) in your skin, impaired intestinal absorption, impaired activation in the liver and kidneys, and certain medications.

Surprisingly, even after having plenty of sunshine throughout the year in most parts of India, 70-80 percent of Indians still have low muscle strength due to a deficiency of Vitamin D, as per Max Healthcare.

Vitamin D Deficiency: Symptoms

Those children who have a mild vitamin deficiency may experience symptoms like weak, sore, and/or painful muscles. A severe deficiency can be identified through certain symptoms, such as incorrect growth patterns due to bowed or bent bones, muscle weakness, bone pain, and deformities in joints. However, this is in very rare cases. On the other hand, the lack of vitamin D in adults isn’t as obvious. The signs and symptoms might include fatigue, bone pain, muscle weakness, muscle aches or cramps, and mood changes, such as gloominess.

Vitamin D Deficiency: Sources of Vitamin D

The easiest way to synthesise vitamin D in your child’s body is by exposing them to direct sunlight during the winter months. However, some kids spend much of their time indoors, so parents can rely on dietary sources for vitamin D. Try to include foods that are high in vitamin D in your child’s diet. This includes salmon (100-250 IU), sardines (300 IU), tuna (236 IU), mushrooms (100 IU), and hard-boiled eggs (20 IU).

For more kid-friendly options, opt for foods that are fortified with vitamin D. A few foods fortified with vitamin D often include milk (100 IU per cup), yoghurt (100 IU per cup), cheese (100 IU per 3 oz.), breakfast cereal (40-100 IU per serving), etc.

While you can consider eating more foods containing vitamin D and getting more sunlight, healthcare providers often recommend parents provide vitamin D supplements to their children. As per the American Academy of Paediatrics, babies and those under one year must consume 400 IU of vitamin D per day, while 600 IU is essential for toddlers, older children, and adolescent

s.