The latest study from The Lancet suggests vitamin D does not improve bone density in babies.
‘The Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology journal’ published the findings from the first controlled trial of its kind in the UK.
Researchers said that vitamin D supplements could be ‘beneficial for babies born in winter months’.
NICE Guidelines recommend pregnant and breastfeeding women take vitamin D supplements, as well as infants and young children under 5 years of age.
Commenting on the study, Policy Advisor at the Royal College of Midwives (RCM), Janet Fyle said: “This is an interesting study, however our advice remains the same and in-line with the most recent guidance, risk groups such as children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should take vitamin D supplementation.”
The RCM says midwives are “key people” to advise pregnant women about vitamin supplements and dietary requirements during pregnancy.
“Midwives comes into contact with women from the earliest stages of their pregnancy and are involved with and throughout antenatal care and birth, this makes them key people to talk to women about vitamin supplementation and dietary issues in pregnancy.
“We would advise women to talk to their midwife or GP for advice on vitamin D supplementation if they are unsure, especially if their fall into the ‘risk group’.
UK health departments recommend pregnant and breastfeeding women should take a supplement containing 10µg of vitamin D daily.
View the latest NICE guidelines on Vitamin supplementation here.
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