Effect of vitamin D on the health status in the perinatal period

Abstract

There is evidence that vitamin D deficiency may be a risk factor in the development of many chronic diseases, such as osteomalacia, rickets, multiple sclerosis, schizophrenia, cardiovascular diseases, Type I diabetes, and cancer. Increased susceptibility to such diseases can originate early in life, during the development of tissue structure and function. Insufficient vitamin D during perinatal development can form the basis that will continue to threaten the health of that individual. This article refers to the risks of vitamin D deficiency on human health and offers updated recommendations for vitamin D supplementation to mothers and their newborns.