Objectives This study was performed to evaluate the relationship between vitamin D, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and Alp status in newborns and their mothers in an Iranian population.

Methods This descriptive and cross-sectional study, was performed among 65 neonates and their mothers; 56 cases were included in the study at Alzahra and Koodakan hospital in Tabriz during Summer and Autumn of 2006. Calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, Alp and 25(OH)D3 levels were measured by chemiluminescence in full-term neonates and their mothers. The normal range for 25(OH)D3 is 12–42 ng/ml. In this study, levels lower than 10 ng/ml were considered as deficient.

Results 68% of the neonates and 57% of the mothers had vitamin D deficiency. The vitamin D level in neonates was 10.68±12.71 and in mothers was 10.63±10.14. The mean magnesium level in 27% of newborn and 33% of mothers was in range of 1–1.5 mg/dl which was lower than normal values for this ion. 25% of mothers had not received vitamin D supplements.

Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency is still a common and serious health problem in productive age women and their babies in developing countries. 90% of our vitamin D is provided by conversion of 7-deydrocholestrol in skin exposed to UVB light. Vitamin D deficiency leads to neonatal seizure, infantile rickets and adult osteomalacia; therefore we need to reconsider recommendations for vitamin supplements and sunlight exposure for pregnant women and their infants.