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Lower Levels of Vitamin D in Infants Elevates Risk of Lung Infection

A recent study has pointed out that newborns with lower levels of vitamin D may be prone to lung infection

by Savitha C Muppala on May 10, 2011 at 11:46 PM

A recent study has pointed out that newborns with lower levels of vitamin D may be prone to lung infection.

During the study, researchers in Netherlands evaluated vitamin D levels in 156 babies at birth by checking concentrations in their cord blood.


After a year, 18 babies were found to be victims of lower respiratory tract infection triggered by a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These babies may have had lower levels of Vitamin D which increased their susceptibility to infections.

It is important the expectant mothers take Vitamin D supplements to offset deficiency of this vital vitamin in babies.

Researchers said, "Especially during pregnancy, doses up to 4000 IU per day may be needed to maintain optimal maternal and neonatal health."



Source: Medindia

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