The Impact of Early-Life Vitamin D Deficiency on Future Glucose and Lipid Metabolism: A Narrative Review

This review investigates the impact of early-life vitamin D deficiency on future glucose and lipid metabolism, examining how insufficient vitamin D during critical developmental stages, including the fetal period (pregnancy), infancy, childhood, and adolescence, can contribute to glucose and lipid metabolic disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases in the future. This review compiles evidence from both human studies and animal models, highlighting the global prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, especially among high-risk groups such as pregnant women, infants, and children. The review identifies potential pathways through which early vitamin D deficiency affects glucose and lipid metabolism, including insulin resistance and lipid accumulation, and discusses the role of vitamin D in regulating metabolic pathways through mechanisms involving the vitamin D receptor (VDR). Key findings suggest that current vitamin D intake recommendations may not adequately prevent long-term metabolic disorders. Consequently, the study advocates for updating public health policies, highlighting that, in addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, early-life vitamin D supplementation may be a viable strategy for preventing future metabolic diseases in high-risk populations. Further research is required to refine dosage guidelines across diverse populations and life stages.