Children whose mothers took extra vitamin D during pregnancy continue to have stronger bones at age seven, according to new research led by the University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton (UHS). Bone density scans revealed that children born to mothers who were given vitamin D supplements during pregnancy have greater bone mineral density in mid-childhood. Their bones contain more calcium and other minerals, making them stronger and less likely to break.
Researchers say the findings, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition , reinforce the importance of vitamin D supplementation in pregnancy as a public health strategy. Dr. Rebecca Moon, NIHR Clinical Lecturer in Child Health at the University of Southampton led the analysis.
Our findings show that the benefits of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy persist into mid-childhood. 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.
" Dr. Rebecca Moon, NIHR Clinical Lecturer in Child Health, University of Southampton Vitamin D regulates the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body - minerals essential for bones, teeth and muscle health. In 2009, researchers launched the MAVIDOS study, recruiting over 1000 women from Southampton, Oxford and Sheffield.
During their pregnancy, the women were randomly allocated to two groups: One group took an extra 1,000 Intern.
