Vitamin D and Your Pregnancy

We may all know that vitamin d is important for the development of healthy bones, but is there a relationship between vitamin d and a successful pregnancy?

According to a study by the Murdoch Childrens Research Institute in Melbourne Australia, "maternal vitamin D status during pregnancy is important for the health of the mother and offspring across a range of possible health outcomes."[1]

"Evidence from animal studies, with some supportive human evidence, suggests that fertility may be impaired in mothers with low vitamin D. During pregnancy, maintaining vitamin D and calcium levels may decrease the risks of pre-eclampsia, while gestational diabetes mellitus appears to be more common in those with low vitamin D status, although there is insufficient evidence of causality."[1]

Since our early childhood we've been told that vitamin d and calcium build strong bones. However, the research from this study may show that it's just as important while a child is still in the womb. It seems that pregnant mothers, just as much as young children, need their daily requirement of vitamin d and calcium.

That said, it may be just as important for expectant mothers to be on some sort of a daily multi-vitamin program. "Folic acid in combination with a multivitamin supplement has been associated with a decrease in specific birth defects...Women in the reproductive age group should be advised about the benefits of folic acid in addition to a multivitamin supplement during wellness visits (birth control renewal, Pap testing, yearly examination) especially if pregnancy is contemplated."[2]

When it comes to our health, proper diet is of utmost importance. However, with the high-paced society we live in, it's not always easy to eat a healthy meal. That's why we need, not only vitamin d and calcium but, a daily regiment of multi-vitamins. Even though most multi-vitamins contain vitamin d and calcium, they may not contain the appropriate amount, especially if you're a mother-to-be.

"There are ongoing research studies to examine the effect of vitamin D on the developing fetus," Dr. Catherine M. Gordon, director of the Children's Hospital Bone Health Program at Children's Hospital Boston, says. "It is known that many mothers are vitamin D deficient, which explains why we are seeing such high rates of vitamin D deficiency among newborns and young children. It is critically important that a pregnant woman receive at least 400 IU of vitamin D daily (the amount in many prenatal vitamins) and a higher dose if prescribed by their obstetrician."[2]

If you're thinking about having children, or are pregnant, adhering to a strict vitamin d and calcium regiment may be in you, and your unborn child's best interest.

Jeffrey Sloe
440-725-3729
TriVita Independent Business Affiliate, 12871028
TriVita Products

Resources:
[1] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20440696
[2] http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18053387
[3] http://www.pregnancytoday.com/articles/healthy-safe-pregnancy/vital-vitamin-d-6272/

The above information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.