Effect of vitamin D-fortified foods on bone health and osteoporosis: a scoping review and future policies focusing on the United Arab Emirates

Abstract

Background

Osteoporosis is a major public health issue characterized by reduced bone mass and increased fracture risk particularly affecting the older population.

Objective

This scoping review aims to summarize the existing literature focusing on the impact of vitamin D-fortified foods in reducing the risk of osteoporosis-related outcomes and improving the overall bone health.

Methods

Considering the study objectives, two databases, i.e., PubMed and Scopus, were selected to search for literature. A search term “vitamin D” OR “vitamin D2” OR “vitamin D3” OR “cholecalciferol” OR “ergocalciferol” AND “fortified food” OR “fortification” OR “oil fortification” OR “ghee fortification” OR “cereal fortification” OR “margarine fortification” OR “milk fortification” OR “egg fortification” AND “osteoporosis” OR “bone mineral density” OR “bone health” was applied to retrieve the available literature. Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines were followed for the methodology and results compilation.

Results

A total of 14 papers were included after applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Evidence from most of the studies (n = 9) indicates that regular consumption of vitamin D-fortified foods improves serum 25(OH)D levels, enhances bone mineral density, and lowers the risk of fractures. However, different factors such as age, fortification dosage, and food vehicle (type of food) appear to affect the result outcomes.

Conclusion

The integration of vitamin D-fortified foods into daily diets appears to be a promising nutritional intervention strategy to support bone health and prevent osteoporosis. Further research is needed for standardization of recommendations for different age groups. Moreover, for countries like the UAE, where vitamin D deficiency remains prevalent and fortification is not yet standardized, adopting an evidence-based policy could be a decisive step toward mitigating future public health and economic burdens related to osteoporosis.