Vitamin D and Prenatal Care

A study from the University of Southampton reported that higher intake of vitamin D during late-stage pregnancy was linked to stronger bones and teeth in children.3 “This study shows for the first time that maternal vitamin-D levels may have an influence on the primary dentition and the development of early-childhood-caries,” wrote Robert Schroth. Caries is a progressive destruction of bone or teeth.

The study assessed dietary habits of 206 pregnant women during their second trimester using questionnaires and blood samples to measure vitamin D levels. Over 33% of infants, examined at an average age of 16.1 months, were found to have early childhood caries. The corresponding mothers of these children were found to have significantly lower vitamin D levels than mothers of caries-free children.

High blood levels of vitamin D, related milk consumption and prenatal vitamin use, were associated with lower incidence of caries in the children, according to research presented at the International Association for Dental Research meeting in Toronto, Canada. Vitamin D is produced in the body on exposure to sunlight. Experts are pushing vitamin D supplements versus claiming recommendations for sun exposure which can be irresponsible in high doses.*

Vitamin D is included in the Viteyes® Multivitamin AREDS Companion and in Viteyes® Complete formulas.

*Schroth, R., Lavelle, C., Moffatt, M.E. “Influence of maternal vitamin D status on infant oral health.” International Association for Dental Research. 4 July 2008, Abstract # 1646.