Vitamin D is an important nutrient in pregnancy for the growth and development of the baby’s bones and teeth. In addition, vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphates. Proper nutrition during pregnancy, including adequate vitamin D, may help lower the risk of pre-eclampsia. In fact, not getting enough vitamin D during pregnancy can cause problems for mom and baby.
A study in the UK showed that mothers who were given a supplement of vitamin D during pregnancy had children with greater bone mineral density. Children were followed and their bone density checked at nine years of age. This information was then compared against information about supplementation during pregnancy.
Other studies have shown a low level of vitamin D can increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications. A 2007 study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh found that low levels of Vitamin D are linked to an increased risk of developing pre eclampsia. The study found that when a low level of vitamin D began in early pregnancy, the risk was increased five times.
Fortunately, a true deficiency in vitamin D is fairly rare, but the additional nutritional requirements of pregnancy makes getting the right balance of nutrients possible. Vitamin D is found in milk, so if you have a few glasses of milk each day, you are covered. An added benefit is milk gives calcium and protein as well, which are two other important nutrients.
In addition to milk, there are other rich food sources of Vitamin D. Foods that are rich in Vitamin D include herring, mackerel, tuna, salmon and cod liver oil. Most women will not need a supplement of vitamin D, with the exception of vegan mothers. Some foods, such as cereals are now fortified with this vitamin, but that may not be enough if the mother to be eats no animal products and doesn’t drink milk.
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