A new clinical study has found that very low birth weight preterm infants benefit significantly from higher doses of vitamin D. Babies who received 800 IU daily showed stronger bone mineralization at hospital discharge compared with those who received the standard 400 IU dose.
The research involved 215 premature infants weighing under 1,500 grams, beginning supplementation at two weeks old until discharge. Results revealed improved whole-body and femur bone density in the higher-dose group, with no signs of vitamin D toxicity.
Preterm infants are especially vulnerable to weak bone development due to reduced nutrient transfer in the womb, feeding challenges, and limited vitamin D storage. By strengthening bone density early, higher supplementation may reduce risks of fractures and long-term skeletal issues.
Experts suggest this finding could lead to revised neonatal care guidelines, making 800 IU per day a safer and more effective standard for supporting the growth of fragile preemies. Further research is expected to confirm these benefits across different populations.
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