A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition has revealed the long-term benefits of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy on children’s bone health.
In a randomized controlled trial involving 965 pregnant women, participants received 1,000 IU of vitamin D daily until delivery.
At ages six to seven, researchers assessed the bone mineral density (BMD) of 447 children.
Results showed that children whose mothers supplemented with vitamin D had significantly higher BMD and bone mineral apparent density (BMAD) compared to those whose mothers did not.
This trend remained significant even after considering factors such as maternal education and breastfeeding duration.
While these findings align with other studies demonstrating positive outcomes from maternal vitamin D supplementation, some discrepancies have been reported, particularly in populations facing health challenges like malnutrition.
Overall, the study suggests that vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy may have lasting benefits on children’s bone health, potentially reducing fracture risk as they grow.
Source: Oman News Agency
