The Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) issued a policy statement indicating that Canadian mothers and babies, especially those in northern communities, aren’t getting enough vitamin D.

Data show that vitamin D deficiency is common among pregnant women, exclusively breastfed babies, and northern Aboriginal populations.

“Vitamin D deficiency can increase health risks, so ensuring that pregnant women and babies have adequate vitamin D can have lifelong implications,” said Dr. John Godel, lead author of the statement.

The Canadian Pediatric Society currently recommends that exclusively breastfed babies receive a supplement of 400 IU/day, and that babies in the North (above 55 degrees latitude) be given twice that amount (800 IU/day) during winter months (October to April). Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and at risk for vitamin D deficiency should talk with their doctor about taking a supplement of 2000 IU/day.

Vitamin D Supplementation: Recommendations for Canadian Mothers and Infants was published in the September issue of Paediatrics & Child Health. Babies who are at risk for vitamin D deficiency - those with dark skin, who have limited exposure to the sun, or whose mothers are vitamin D deficient, should also receive extra vitamin D during the winter months, regardless of where they live.

The primary source for vitamin D is the sun. In the absence of adequate sun exposure - foods (human milk, butter, fish oil, and eggs) and supplements serve as alternative sources.

Recent data from the Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program suggests that rickets, an illness associated with vitamin D deficiency is still prevalent in Canada, especially among First Nations and Inuit populations.

“Limited sun exposure at northern latitudes contributes to low levels of
vitamin D, especially among northern Aboriginal communities,” said Dr. Kent
Saylor, chair of the CPS First Nations, Inuit and Métis Health Committee.
He added, “Vitamin D supplementation is the simplest way to protect mothers and their babies from preventable illness.”

More Data: Vitamin D Deficiency Stirs Debate