Maternal Vit D Supplements & Infant and Maternal Biomarkers & Outcomes in Southern Ethiopia
Maternal Vit D Supplements & Infant and Maternal Biomarkers & Outcomes in Southern Ethiopia
Synthesis of vitamin D in the skin through the action of sunlight is a major source of
 vitamin D in parts of the world where foods are not fortified with the vitamin. Skin
 pigmentation (color), dress habits and season are some of the factors that limit sun exposure
 and affect vitamin D synthesis in the skin. Maternal vitamin D status is especially important
 to meet infant needs when newborns are not supplemented with vitamin D. In Ethiopia, vitamin
 D status of lactating women and infants and breast milk vitamin D concentration have never
 been assessed. The purpose of this study is to assess changes in maternal and infant markers
 of vitamin D status before and after vitamin D supplementation of the lactating mothers.
Vitamin D is a vitamin that regulates calcium and phosphorous homeostasis and ensures proper
 mineralization of bone. Lactating women and infants are considered to be at risk of vitamin D
 deficiency due to increased needs for vitamin D and calcium. Stores of vitamin D acquired in
 utero and breast milk are the main sources of vitamin D for infants. Maternal vitamin D
 deficiency, exclusive breastfeeding, skin pigmentation and limited sun exposure are commonly
 seen in infants with rickets. However, the UV exposure, dress habits, traditional practices
 and other risk factors to vitamin D deficiency in Ethiopia have not been explored. This study
 aims to fill this research gap.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Breastfeeding

 -  Available for enrollment within 2 weeks of delivery

 -  Residing in the study area in Ethiopia

 -  Apparently healthy

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Self-reported chronic or acute disease condition

 -  Not breastfeeding

 -  Twin births