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Relationship between vitamin D during perinatal development and health
Jovana Kaludjerovic1, Reinhold Vieth
1Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. jovana.kaludjerovic@utoronto.ca
Journal of Midwifery & Women'S Health
|October 27, 2010
Summary
Vitamin D deficiency affects many pregnant women and may increase risks for chronic diseases later in life. Early life nutrition is crucial for long-term health, with recommendations for mothers and newborns provided.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal nutrition and public health
Background:
- Vitamin D deficiency is highly prevalent, affecting 40-80% of pregnant women.
- Emerging evidence links vitamin D deficiency to chronic diseases like multiple sclerosis, diabetes, and cancer.
- Early life nutritional environment may influence long-term health through fetal and neonatal imprinting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the health risks associated with vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women and newborns.
- To provide current vitamin D recommendations for maternal and infant health.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article summarizing existing research and guidelines.
- No new experimental data were generated.
Main Results:
- Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy poses significant risks for both mother and child.
- Inadequate perinatal vitamin D may establish a foundation for future chronic disease susceptibility.
- Specific chronic diseases linked to deficiency include osteomalacia, rickets, multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, heart disease, type 1 diabetes, and cancer.
Conclusions:
- Addressing vitamin D deficiency in pregnant women and newborns is critical for mitigating long-term health risks.
- Adherence to updated vitamin D recommendations is essential for optimal perinatal health outcomes.
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