A recent study that tested 147 pregnant women at Sydney’s Westmead Hospital has found that 41% had inadequate levels of vitamin D. The researchers note that this statistic is unacceptably high and highlights the need to test all mums-to-be of their vitamin D status – and to supplement if needed.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked with a number of conditions and this recent research shows a great concern for bone health in infants born to vitamin D deficient women. Childhood rickets is currently becoming more prevalent in Australia and it is well established that adequate vitamin D in pregnancy is needed for proper bone development in the child.
The researchers also found a link between vitamin D deficiency and gestational diabetes with women with the worst blood sugar control were also those with the lowest vitamin D levels. Gestational diabetes puts women at a higher risk of pregnancy complications.
Despite living in temperate Sydney and the recent awareness of the importance of vitamin D in the media, pregnant women and therefore their babies are still vitamin D deficient.
The RDI of vitamin D in pregnancy and infancy is 200 IU/day. Safe exposure to sunlight for short bursts throughout the day without the use of sun protective clothing or sunscreens and daily supplementation are effective ways of increasing your vitamin D levels and ensuring you are meeting your daily requirements.
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