Health Country February 24, 2025

Vitamin D Supplements Improve Child Bone Density

A study from Southampton University reveals that pregnant women taking vitamin D supplements significantly enhance their children's bone density, reducing future fracture risks.


Vitamin D Supplements Improve Child Bone Density

"The Journal of Nutritional Sciences" reported on a recent study conducted by the University of Southampton and the Southampton University Hospital, indicating the benefits of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy in improving bone density in children. The results showed that children born to mothers taking supplements had a greater bone mass compared to those whose mothers did not take such supplements.

The study divided pregnant women into two groups, where one group received an additional daily dose of vitamin D at a value of 1000 international units, while the other group received a placebo. Bone health was measured in children at four years of age, and the study showed that the improvement in bone density continued until mid-childhood, where 454 children were monitored with ages ranging from six to seven years.

Researchers view this study as confirming the importance of vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy due to its benefits in strengthening children's bones and reducing the risk of diseases such as osteomalacia and fractures in later stages of life. Vitamin D plays a significant role in regulating the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which are considered essential for bones, teeth, and muscle health.