What does a deficiency in Vitamin D primarily cause?

A deficiency in Vitamin D primarily leads to Rickets in children and Osteomalacia in adults. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption in the intestines and maintaining proper phosphorus levels in the body, both essential for healthy bone development and maintenance. In children, a lack of Vitamin D leads to the softening and weakening of bones, which manifests as Rickets, characterized by deformities such as bowed legs. In adults, this deficiency can result in Osteomalacia, which is the softening of bones, increasing the risk of fractures and bone pain. This condition highlights the critical protective and structural roles that Vitamin D serves in bone health across different life stages.