Vitamin D Deficiency in Mothers May Affect Offspring

The numbers are staggering: One in six American children is obese, and one in three is considered overweight.

And unfortunately, these statistics have progressively gotten worse over the last decade. However, new research could be part of the breakthrough needed to combat these rising numbers. According to British researchers, there is a direct correlation between Vitamin D deficiencies in mothers during pregnancy and tendencies towards overweight and obesity in their children.

After seeing childhood obesity rising and more and more young women with Vitamin D deficiencies, scientists at Southampton University in England sought to prove or disprove a possible link between the two. In a six-year study, 977 women were monitored during their pregnancy and through their first few years of being a mother.

Findings showed that the children of mothers lacking the necessary vitamin D during pregnancy had higher body fat by age 6. Other factors such as weight gain during pregnancy, and overall health were monitored, but Vitamin D levels in mothers proved to be the only common link to the body composition of their children.

According to principal researcher Dr. Sian Robinson, “Although there is growing evidence that vitamin D status is linked to body fatness in children and adults, this research now suggests that the mother’s status in pregnancy could be important too.”

Vitamin D can be obtained through sunlight, seafood and dairy products, and supplements. For most people, sunlight and food do not provide the proper amount of Vitamin D3, the most beneficial form of Vitamin D. If this is the case, it is recommended to find a supplement to fill your need. On top of combating obesity, Vitamin D promotes calcium absorption and supports bone and cardiovascular health.

The study is an important step in learning about the potential causes of childhood obesity. With follow up studies, we may eventually be able to slow, stop and even reverse the growing number of overweight kids.

Paul Carlotta is the leading expert in Market America and Nutraceuticals.  To learn more, visit http://www.isotonicvitamins.com today.