Yuko Nakura

Dr. Yuko Nakura


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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19 March 2025 in Nutrients
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
RIRyoko Ichikawa
Ryoko Ichikawa
MSMegumi Shibata
Megumi Shibata
YNYuko Nakura
Yuko Nakura
Katsumi IizukaKatsumi Iizuka
Katsumi Iizuka
KUKazuhiro Uenishi
Kazuhiro Uenishi
HNHaruki Nishizawa
Haruki Nishizawa
Objectives: We previously reported a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D (25OHD < 20 ng/mL) in Japanese pregnant women with threatened premature delivery. This study aimed to assess nutritional status and its relationship with bone-related markers and microarchitecture, as measured using quantitative ultrasonography (QUS), in Japanese women during the perinatal period. Methods: We recruited Japanese women who had just delivered at Fujita Health University Hospital (n = 103, cesarean/vaginal delivery = 50/53, age 33.9 ± 4.9 years). On the third day postpartum, their calcaneal QUS was measured, and fasting blood samples were collected. Results: The mean total energy intake (1720 ± 298 kcal/day) was lower than the normal range for Japanese women (2100 kcal/day). Their calcium intake (446 ± 130 mg/day) was significantly below the recommended daily intake (RDI) in Japan (660 mg/day), with 95% of participants consuming less than the RDI. Although the average vitamin D intake (8.7 ± 1.8 μg/day) met the Japanese RDI (8.5 μg/day), 36% of participants consumed less than the RDI. Calcium intake was positively associated with the intake of lipids, protein, and vitamins A, D, and K. Additionally, calcium intake but not vitamin D intake tended to correlate with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels. The QUS indices showed no significant association with calcium or vitamin D intake. Conclusions: During the perinatal period, Japanese women had low calcium intake and relatively low vitamin D intake, accompanied by reduced 25OHD levels. These findings highlight the need for public health recommendations and policies to promote adequate calcium and vitamin D intake during pregnancy.