Adequate vitamin D is crucial for bone development and strength New research finds that kids whose moms took vitamin D supplements while pregnant had stronger bones at age 7 The nutrient may help spur gene activity that aids bone development THURSDAY, Nov.7, 2024 (HealthDay News) -- Women who take vitamin D supplements during a pregnancy may be giving their kids the legacy of stronger bones, new British research suggests. Children whose moms took vitamin D supplements when pregnant had stronger, denser bones at the age of 7 compared to the kids of women who didn't, a study from the University of Southampton shows.
It's an head start on bone health that might last a lifetime, said lead researcher Dr. Rebecca Moon . “This early intervention represents an important public health strategy.
It strengthens children’s bones and reduces the risk of conditions like osteoporosis and fractures in later life," said Moon, a clinical lecturer in child health at the university. Her team published its findings in the November issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition . It's long been understood that vitamin D -- often called the "sunshine vitamin" because human skin manufactures it upon contact with sunlight -- plays a key role in bone development and health.
As the British team explained, the nutrient regulates the body's levels of calcium and phosphate -- two minerals needed for strong bones, teeth and muscle health. Could maintaining good levels of vitamin D in pregnancy ben.