Abstract

A REVIEW ON VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY AT DIFFERENT STAGES - DURING GESTATION, LACTATION AND PAEDIATRICS

*Krishnakumar S., Hari Babu E. and Santny A. S.

Abstract

Now a-days vitamin D deficiency plays a significant role in concern with health issues around the geographic region. Even in tropical countries, where there is abundant sunlight this deficiency is reported among all age groups. Recent guidelines suggested vitamin D at its high risk for toxicity as 25(OH)D levels 50ng/mL respectively. The manifestations of this deficiency vary from autoimmune diseases to cardiovascular mortality. The objective of this review is to assess the magnitude and consequences of VDD during gestation, lactation and paediatrics with its associated risk factors, prevention methods, and the possibilities of epigenetic mechanism in early foetal life. Routine supplementation starting from newborn period is being increasingly endorsed by various international organizations. Preventing from being exposed to UV rays, food fortification and routine supplementation are the current available options for handling this nutritional deficiency.

Keywords: Vitamin D, gestation, lactation, foetus, autoimmune disease, deficiency.