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A major international study published in The Lancet Psychiatry has found that babies born with low vitamin D levels are more likely to develop mental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia.
Led by researchers at the University of Queensland, the study analysed vitamin D levels from more than 70,000 Danish newborns using blood samples collected shortly after birth. The findings revealed a clear association: babies with “very low” vitamin D (under 25 nmol/L) had a significantly higher risk of developing certain psychiatric conditions later in life.
Why This Matters
Newborns cannot produce their own vitamin D. They rely entirely on what is transferred from the mother during pregnancy. This means maintaining healthy vitamin D levels during pregnancy is not just important for bone health — it may play a crucial role in brain development.
What’s Next for Australia?
The federal government is reviewing pregnancy care guidelines, with vitamin D supplementation under scrutiny. While current guidelines already recommend prenatal vitamin D, routine testing isn’t yet advised. Experts urge caution: “Mental health is multifactorial,” says obstetrician Amanda Henry, “but optimising maternal nutrition remains key.”
What You Can Do
- ☀️ Get safe sun exposure.
- 🥛 Consume vitamin D-rich foods (e.g., fatty fish, eggs, fortified margarine).
- 💊 Discuss supplements with your healthcare provider.
Stay informed as Australia’s guidelines evolve—your baby’s brain health starts now.