Breastfed infant bones not helped by 800 IU of Vitamin D (not enough) – RCT
Lack of Effect of Graded Doses of Vitamin D on Bone Metabolism of Breastfed Infants
J Clin Nutr Metab 2017, 1:1
Ekhard E Ziegler1*, Winston WK Koo2, Steven E Nelson1 and Janice M Jeter1
Objective: A range of doses of supplemental vitamin D has been shown to be effective in preventing rickets in breastfed infants, but the effect of different doses of vitamin D on bone metabolism and mineral content has not been delineated.
Methods: In a randomized trial, breastfed infants received from 2 to 9 months daily supplements of vitamin D in doses of 200 IU/d, 400 IU/d, 600 IU/d or 800 IU/d. Measures of bone metabolism (plasma) were determined periodically and bone mineral content (DXA) was determined at study entry and at the end of winter when infants were 5.5 to 9 months old. The main findings have been reported; here we report findings related to bone metabolism.
Results: There were no consistent meaningful effects of vitamin D dose on markers of bone metabolism. Some markers showed changes with age. Bone mineral content increased with age but showed no effect of vitamin D dose.
Conclusion: Vitamin D in daily doses from 200 IU/d to 800 IU/d had no measurable effect on bone mineral content or bone metabolism of breastfed infants.