We were told in Oakland that vitamin D and zinc - each on their own contribute to growth in thalassemia.
When taken in combination they have a greater effect. This applies also to bone density.
With some increase in vitamin D little A experienced increase in bone density. He was in low normal range in 2009 - and in 2010 his bone density was even better. Since our last visit, he has taken 50,000IU of vitamin D for 6 weeks - and he is now on a maintenance dose (I give him 3000IU a day). He is also on 50mg of zinc every second day. With this combination we are hoping to see a further increase in bone density. Since taking this combination his height has increased from 136cm to 138.2cm from August 20th to December 8th. We hope to see a lot of growth before our appointment in August.
I highly recommend this to all thals.
Sharmin