Rickets is the term used to describe the softening and weakening of bones in children. Most cases of rickets result from an extreme and prolonged deficiency of vitamin D.

Calcium and phosphorus absorption from the gastrointestinal tract is essential for children to build strong bones. Because vitamin D promotes this absorption, a deficiency makes it difficult to maintain proper calcium and phosphorus levels in the bones.

When an imbalance of calcium and phosphorus in the bloodstream exists, the body reacts by taking calcium and phosphorus from the bones to raise blood levels accordingly. This causes bone structure to become weakened or softened and the result is skeletal deformities such as bowlegs or improper curvature of the spine. The adult version of rickets is known as osteomalacia.

Signs and symptoms of rickets may include:

Skeletal deformities - Including bowed legs, abnormal curvature of the spine, pelvic deformities and breastbone projection in the chest.

Fragile bones - Children with rickets are at higher risk for bone fractures.

Impaired growth - Delayed growth in height or limbs.

Dental problems - Including defects in tooth structure, increased chance of cavities, poor enamel and delayed formation of teeth.

Bone pain - Including dull, aching pain or tenderness in the spine, pelvis and legs.

Muscle weakness - Decreased muscle tone may make movement uncomfortable.

Vitamin D regulates calcium and phosphorus levels in the bones. A person can absorb vitamin D from two sources:

Sunlight - When exposed to sunlight, the skin produces vitamin D. Most adolescents and adults produce vitamin D this way.

Food - Vitamin D can also be absorbed from foods or from intaking supplements or multivitamins.

Most cases of rickets are caused vitamin D deficiency. For those who are getting adequate amounts of the vitamin, other causes include:

Surgeries - Such as gastrectomy where part or all of the stomach is removed.

Celiac disease - Where the small intestine doesn't absorb certain nutrients from food.

Other causes of rickets include:

Hereditary rickets (X-linked hypophosphatemia)

Lack of exposure to sunlight, which stimulates the body to make vitamin D

The regimen below is for adults and includes a safe, natural approach for treating & preventing rickets:

Avoid, sugar, junk foods or carbonated beverages.

Eat more raw fruits & vegetables, raw nuts and seeds.

Food allergy testing may be beneficial.

The following supplements my also be beneficial:

Boron (3mg daily) - Enhances calcium absorption.

Calcium (1,500 mg daily) - Necessary to remineralize bone.

Phosphorus (take as directed on label) - Needed for bone and tooth growth.

Silica (500 mg daily) - Strengthens bones and aids calcium absorption.

Vitamin D-3 (400 - 600 IU daily) - Needed for calcium and phosphorus use by the body.

Cod Liver Oil (take as directed on label) - A good source of vitamins A and D.

Proteolytic Enzymes (take as directed on label between meals) - Aids digestion.

Vitamin A (10,000 IU daily) - Necessary for growth.

Zinc (30 mg daily) - Needed for calcium absorption.

Multivitamin and Mineral Complex (take as directed on label)- Supplies higher amounts of all vitamins and minerals.

Dandelion Root, Horsetail, Nettle and Oat Straw - Promote bone growth and health