Sedentary behavior is associated with lower serum concentrations of vitamin D in Brazilian children

•It was found a high prevalence of inadequate serum vitamin D in children, even in the case of a tropical country.•Vitamin D intake was below the recommendation, thus underscoring the importance of encouraging children to eat source foods.•Modifiable behavioral factors associated with lower serum vitamin D were the highest screen time and less sun exposure.•Darker skin color and winter also contributed to reduce serum concentrations of vitamin D.