ABSTRACT
Deficiencies in maternal diet and low maternal plasma of vitamin D in pregnancy may influence the growth and bone mineral accrual of the offspring during fetal life and childhood. This review summarizes the evidence available from cohort studies that include information of maternal diet and concentrations of vitamin D during pregnancy associated with bone mass of the offspring. A literature search was conducted through MEDLINE and included studies from 2000 to 2009. The main associations found in the studies were related to maternal calcium intake and vitamin D concentrations. Several studies reported a high prevalence of maternal vitamin D deficiency (varying from 15% to 66%) associated with increased risk of neonatal vitamin D deficiency [odds ratio (OR) 17.2, 95% CI 8.8-34.3)]. A strong positive association between maternal and cord blood serum vitamin D was found in two different studies (r = 0.70 and r = 0.755 p <0.001). Mothers who were deficient in vitamin D had offspring with lower whole body bone mineral content (BMC) (mean 1.04 kg ± 0·16 vs. 1.16 kg ± 0.17, p = 0.002). Adequate concentrations of maternal vitamin D are essential for calcium homeostasis and bone health of the newborn. High prevalence of maternal vitamin D insufficiency found in different populations can lead to problems of low BMC or, in severe cases, fetal rickets.