Vitamin D probiotics fortification improve vitamin D and total antioxidant capacity levels among pregnant women: a single-blinded randomized controlled trial

Vitamin D deficiency remains a significant public health concern especially in Ghana. In pregnant women, it has been associated with various adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. However, there is inadequate standard measures to reduce vitamin D deficiency and improve total antioxidant capacity (TAC). For the first time, this study investigated the effectiveness of vitamin D fortified probiotic yogurt intake on serum vitamin D and total antioxidant capacity levels in pregnant women in Ghana. This single blinded randomized controlled trial study included 126 (63 fortified and 63 non-fortified group) pregnant women within their first trimester attending antenatal care at selected hospitals in the Ashanti Region, Ghana. Participants were followed up for 6 months. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected. Venous blood samples were also collected at baseline and end line for serum 25(OH)D and TAC quantification using ELISA (Thermo scientific). Statistical analyses were done in SPSS version 26.0 and R Language version 4.4.4. The baseline Vitamin D deficiency was 88.1% and weak TAC was 73.0%, however not statistically influenced by sunlight exposure (p > 0.05). Besides, race of participants (p = 0.003) was significantly associated with Vitamin D deficiency. Moreover, Vitamin D deficiency (86.5% vs. 13.5%; p = 0.985) and weak TAC (84.8% vs. 15.2%; p = 0.351) were more predominant among pregnant women with inadequate dietary pattern, however not statistically significant. At end line, fortified study group had significantly higher levels of Vitamin D (p < 0.01) and TAC (p < 0.0001) compared to non-fortified group with higher Vitamin D deficiency (93.0%; p = 0.022) and weak TAC (55.8%: p < 0.0001). The prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency and low total antioxidant capacity (TAC) among pregnant women is notably high, especially among Ghanaian populations. Targeted interventions, such as Vitamin D fortification during pregnancy, are essential to enhance Vitamin D and TAC levels, potentially reducing adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Trial registration: The Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR), Random Controlled Trial PACTR202408762065192 on 21st August 2024. Retrospectively registered.