What should women with vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy take daily?

Women with vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy should take a daily supplement of 1,000 to 2,000 IU. This dosage is supported by research indicating that higher levels of vitamin D can be beneficial for both maternal and fetal health. During pregnancy, adequate vitamin D levels are important for calcium metabolism and bone health, which are critical for the developing fetus as well as for the mother's bone integrity.

The recommended amount of vitamin D can vary based on individual needs and current vitamin D levels in the body, but it is widely accepted that 1,000 to 2,000 IU is a safe and effective range for those who are deficient. Vitamin D is not only important for bone health but also plays a role in immune function and has been linked to lower risks of certain pregnancy complications.

Additionally, the other options tend to represent lower daily recommendations that may not be sufficient for women already identified with deficiency. Lower doses, such as 400 IU or 800 IU, may be adequate for maintenance once sufficient levels of vitamin D are reached, but they are typically not enough to correct a deficiency effectively during pregnancy. Thus, for women diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency, a higher supplementation of 1,000 to 2,000 IU is the recommended approach to