Milk earned its status as a health all-star particularly in the arena of bone health toting impressive levels of calcium, vitamin D, protein, and other essential vitamins and minerals. In fact, studies across the globe verify milk drinkers have stronger bones throughout life. A new study from the University of California-Davis and USDA indicated that a higher dose of vitamin D, one of those all-star nutrients in milk, might reduce inflammation during pregnancy.

The researchers compared vitamin D supplement rates of 400 international units (IU) and 2,000 IU in prenatal women. Those expectant mothers provided the larger supplement also had higher concentrations of vitamin D in their blood and lower levels of TNF-alpha, which is an immune factor associated with inflammation.

The findings are significant because of the dangers of inflammation around pregnancy. Inflammation is associated with high blood pressure, preeclampsia, premature delivery, and low birth weight.

The University of California-Davis and USDA scientists also noticed that higher levels of vitamin D improved the levels of a subset of immune cells with anti-inflammatory properties.

This study particularly focused on supplementation of vitamin D. Although a single-serving of milk alone cannot meet the 2,000 IU level of vitamin D, it can be an important part of a healthy prenatal diet providing a boost in calcium, vitamin D, protein, and more.