Take this vitamin during pregnancy.
Recent research emphasizes the importance of sufficient vitamin D levels during early pregnancy for both maternal and infant health. A study conducted by Penn State researchers found that women who had low vitamin D during their first trimester were more likely to experience preterm births and deliver smaller babies. This highlights the need for women to monitor their vitamin D levels before and during pregnancy to support healthy pregnancy outcomes.
The research, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, revealed that more than a quarter of pregnant or breastfeeding women have inadequate vitamin D levels. Since the body produces vitamin D through sunlight exposure, and many people do not get enough through sunlight or diet, supplementation or dietary adjustments may be necessary to maintain optimal levels.
The study analyzed the vitamin D levels of 351 pregnant women during their first trimester. It showed that women with vitamin D levels below 40 nmol/L were four times more likely to have preterm births compared to those with higher levels (above 80 nmol/L). In addition, babies born to women with lower vitamin D levels were often smaller, suggesting that early vitamin D deficiency can impact both birth timing and infant size.
Although vitamin D levels during the second trimester did not seem to affect pregnancy outcomes, the researchers stress the critical role of maintaining adequate vitamin D during the first trimester. The findings suggest that women who are planning to get pregnant should prioritize proper nutrition, including vitamin D, to ensure the health of both mother and baby. Monitoring vitamin D along with other nutrients, such as iron and folate, is essential for supporting a healthy pregnancy.
The researchers call for further studies to confirm these findings, as the occurrence of preterm births was low in their sample. Nevertheless, the study highlights a significant link between vitamin D deficiency in early pregnancy and adverse outcomes, making it an important area for future research and health recommendations.
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