Bades and pregnancy: what you need to know
Part 1: General principles and warnings
Pregnancy is a physiologically unique period in a woman’s life, requiring increased attention to health and nutrition. During this period, the need for certain vitamins and minerals increases, and many women think about using biologically active additives (dietary supplements). However, the intake of dietary supplements during pregnancy is a question that requires special attention and consultation with a doctor. Self -medication and uncontrolled use of additives can harm both the mother and the developing fruit.
1.1. What is dietary supplements and how do they differ from drugs?
Bades (biologically active food additives) are concentrates of natural or identical to natural biologically active substances, designed for direct intake with food or introduction into food products. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their main goal is to replenish the deficiency of nutrients, maintain the normal function of organs and systems of the body, and increase resistance to adverse environmental factors.
The key difference between dietary supplements and a drug is in the process of registration and control. Medicines undergo strict clinical trials to confirm efficiency and safety, while for registration of dietary supplements, as a rule, the provision of documents confirming the composition and compliance with hygienic requirements is sufficient. This means that the efficiency and safety of dietary supplements can be insufficiently studied.
1.2. The risks associated with the intake of dietary supplements during pregnancy.
The intake of dietary supplements during pregnancy is associated with a number of potential risks:
- Insufficient knowledge: Many dietary supplements do not undergo clinical trials for pregnant women, so their influence on the development of the fetus remains unknown.
- Uncontrolled composition: The composition of dietary supplements may not match the stated on the label. This can lead to an overdose of individual components or the content of impurities harmful to health.
- Interaction with drugs: Bad can interact with drugs that a pregnant woman takes, changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects.
- Symptoms disguise: Reception of dietary supplements can mask the symptoms of serious diseases, delaying timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Risk for the fetus: Some dietary supplements can have a teratogenic effect on the fetus, causing congenital malformations.
- Allergic reactions: Bad can cause allergic reactions in a pregnant woman, which can be dangerous for her and the fetus.
- An overdose of vitamins and minerals: An excess of certain vitamins and minerals, especially fat -soluble (a, d, e, k), can be toxic for the fetus.
1.3. Rules for taking dietary supplements during pregnancy.
If the doctor considers it necessary to take dietary supplements during pregnancy, the following rules must be followed:
- Consultation with a doctor: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplement. The doctor will evaluate your health status, take into account possible risks and select the most suitable supplement in the necessary dosage.
- The choice of a trusted manufacturer: Buy dietary supplements only from famous and reliable manufacturers with a good reputation. Check the availability of quality certificates.
- Study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of dietary supplements on the label. Make sure that there are no components that are contraindicated to you.
- Dosage compliance: Strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the label. Do not exceed it without consulting a doctor.
- Observation of your condition: Carefully follow your condition during the admission of dietary supplements. When any side effects appear, stop taking immediately and consult a doctor.
- Information of other doctors: Tell all the doctors in whom you are observing about the admission of dietary supplements.
1.4. Alternatives to receive dietary supplements.
In many cases, a feed of nutrients can be replenished using a balanced diet. Try to use a variety of products rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat meat, fish and dairy products. In some cases, the doctor may recommend the reception of specialized vitamin-mineral complexes developed specifically for pregnant women.
Part 2: The most common dietary supplements and their role during pregnancy
During pregnancy, the woman’s body experiences an increased need for certain vitamins and minerals. Some dietary supplements can be prescribed by a doctor to replenish the deficiency of these substances. However, it is important to understand the role of each component and possible risks associated with their technique.
2.1. Folic acid (vitamin B9).
Folic acid plays a key role in the development of the nervous system of the fetus. Its deficiency during pregnancy can lead to the development of defects in the nervous tube, such as the crevice of the spine (spina bifida) and anencephaly. It is recommended that folic acid take folic acid a few months before the planned pregnancy and continue during the first trimester. The dosage of folic acid is determined by the doctor individually, usually 400-800 μg per day.
2.2. Iron.
During pregnancy, the need for iron increases, since it is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which tolerates oxygen to the fetus. Iron deficiency can lead to the development of iron deficiency anemia in a pregnant woman, which can adversely affect the development of the fetus. Iron preparations are prescribed by a doctor if there are signs of anemia. The dosage of iron is determined individually, based on the indicators of hemoglobin and ferritin. It is important to remember that the use of iron can cause side effects, such as constipation and nausea. To improve iron absorption, it is recommended to take it with vitamin C.
2.3. Calcium.
Calcium is necessary for the formation of the bones and teeth of the fetus. If a pregnant woman does not receive enough calcium with food, he will withdraw from her own bones, which can lead to the development of osteoporosis. Calcium preparations are prescribed by a doctor with calcium deficiency in the diet. The dosage of calcium is determined individually, usually 1000-1300 mg per day.
2.4. Vitamin D.
Vitamin D plays an important role in the assimilation of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the formation of the bones of the fetus. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to the development of rickets in a child. Vitamin D preparations are prescribed by a doctor with a deficiency of vitamin D in the blood. The dosage of vitamin D is determined individually, usually 600-800 IU per day.
2.5. Omega-3 fatty acids.
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DGK (daily acidic acid), are necessary for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. They also have an anti -inflammatory effect and can reduce the risk of premature birth. The sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish (salmon, sardines, tuna), linseed oil and fish oil. Omega-3 drugs can be prescribed by a doctor to replenish the deficiency of these substances.
2.6. Iodine.
Iodine is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in the development of the brain of the fetus. Iodine deficiency can lead to the development of cretinism in a child. Yoda preparations are prescribed by a doctor in areas endemic in iodine or in the presence of signs of iodine deficiency. The dosage of iodine is determined individually, usually 150-250 μg per day.
2.7. Magnesium.
Magnesium is involved in many biochemical processes in the body, including the regulation of the nervous system and muscle function. Magnesium deficiency can lead to increased excitability, convulsions and premature birth. Magnesium preparations can be prescribed by a doctor if there are signs of magnesium deficiency.
2.8. Probiotics.
Probiotics are living microorganisms, which, when used in sufficient quantities, have a favorable effect on the body, in particular, on the intestinal microflora. Taking probiotics during pregnancy can improve digestion, strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of allergic reactions in a child. However, before taking probiotics, it is necessary to consult a doctor, since some strains can be contraindicated during pregnancy.
2.9. Vitamin S.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant and is involved in the synthesis of collagen necessary for the formation of connective tissue. It also improves iron absorption. Vitamin C deficiency is rare, but if necessary, the doctor can prescribe vitamin C drugs
2.10. Vitamin E.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant and protects the cells from damage by free radicals. However, taking high doses of vitamin E during pregnancy can be dangerous. Therefore, vitamin E drugs should be taken only as prescribed by the doctor and in the recommended dosage.
Part 3: Bad, which should be avoided during pregnancy
Some dietary supplements can be dangerous for pregnant women and developing fruit. Their reception should be avoided or limited to a minimum.
3.1. Herbal additives.
Many herbal additives that are considered safe for ordinary people can be dangerous during pregnancy. Some herbs can cause uterine contractions, bleeding or other complications. Herbal additives, which should be avoided during pregnancy, include:
- Dong Quai (Dong quai): It can cause uterine contractions and bleeding.
- Ephedra (ephedra): It can increase blood pressure and cause premature birth.
- GoldenSeal (GoldensEal): It can cause jaundice in newborns.
- Yohimbe: It can increase blood pressure and cause anxiety.
- Red Clover (Red Clover): Contains phytoestrogens that can affect hormonal background.
- Tansy (tansy): It can cause uterine contractions and miscarriage.
- Wormwood (Wormwood): It can cause uterine contractions and miscarriage.
- Sassafras (Sassafras): Can be toxic for the liver.
3.2. Diet for weight loss.
Dietral dietary supplement for weight loss, as a rule, contain substances that accelerate the metabolism, suppress appetite or block the absorption of fats. These substances can be dangerous for pregnant women and developing fruit. Losing weight during pregnancy is not recommended, as this can deprive the fruit of the necessary nutrients.
3.3. Diet to increase energy.
Bad to increase energy often contain caffeine, guarana or other stimulants. These substances can increase blood pressure, cause anxiety and insomnia. High consumption of caffeine during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage and premature birth.
3.4. Bad containing vitamin A in the form of retinol.
Vitamin A is necessary for the development of the fetus, but its overdose can be teratogenic, that is, cause congenital malformations. Vitamin A exists in two forms: retinol (animal source) and beta-carotene (plant source). Beta-carotene is safe, since the body converts it into vitamin and only if necessary. Retinol can accumulate in the body and have a toxic effect. Therefore, you should avoid taking dietary supplements containing vitamin A in the form of retinol, especially in high doses.
3.5. Dietary supplies that have not passed the test and containing unknown ingredients.
Some dietary supplements may contain ingredients not indicated on the label, or contain harmful impurities, such as heavy metals. Buy dietary supplements only from trusted manufacturers and avoid products that do not have clear information about the composition and manufacturer.
Part 4: How to choose a safe dietary supplement during pregnancy
The choice of safe dietary supplements during pregnancy is a responsible process that requires an attentive approach and consulting a doctor.
4.1. Checking the composition and certification.
Carefully study the composition of dietary supplements on the label. Make sure that there are no components that are contraindicated to you or which should be avoided during pregnancy. Check the availability of quality certificates confirming the compliance of the dietary supplement with the established safety requirements.
4.2. The choice of the manufacturer.
Give preference to well -known and reliable manufacturers with a good reputation. Check reviews about the manufacturer on the Internet. Make sure that the manufacturer complies with quality standards in the manufacture of dietary supplements.
4.3. The form of release.
It is preferable to choose a dietary supplement in the form of tablets or capsules, since they, as a rule, contain a more accurate dosage than liquid forms.
4.4. Storage conditions.
Follow the storage conditions indicated on the label. Do not use dietary supplements with an expired shelf life.
4.5. Pay attention to side effects.
Carefully follow your condition during the admission of dietary supplements. When any side effects appear, stop taking immediately and consult a doctor.
Part 5: Proper nutrition as a basis for health during pregnancy
Reception of dietary supplements should not replace a balanced diet. Proper nutrition is the basis of health during pregnancy. Try to use a variety of products rich in vitamins and minerals.
5.1. The basic principles of a balanced diet for pregnant women.
- Variety: Use a variety of products from all groups: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low -fat meat, fish, dairy products.
- Full -fledged protein: Protein is necessary for the construction of fetal tissue. Use a sufficient amount of protein from low -fat meat, fish, eggs, legumes and dairy products.
- Complex carbohydrates: Complex carbohydrates provide the body with energy. Use whole grain products, fruits and vegetables.
- Healthy fats: Healthy fats are necessary for the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. Use fatty fish, avocados, nuts and seeds.
- Limitation: Limit the consumption of sugar, salt, processed products and fast food.
5.2. Products rich in the necessary vitamins and minerals.
- Folic acid: Green leafy vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits.
- Iron: Red meat, liver, legumes, spinach.
- Calcium: Dairy products, green leafy vegetables, enriched products.
- Vitamin D: Bold fish, egg yolk, enriched products.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Fat fish (salmon, sardines, tuna), linseed oil, walnuts.
- Iodine: Iodized salt, seafood, dairy products.
- Vitamin C: Citrus fruits, berries, pepper, broccoli.
5.3. Diet.
Try to eat regularly, in small portions, 5-6 times a day. This will help to avoid overeating and maintain a stable blood sugar.
5.4. Water balance.
Drink enough water during the day, about 2-2.5 liters. Water is necessary for the normal functioning of the body and maintaining the water balance.
Part 6: Conclusion
Reception of dietary supplements during pregnancy is a question that requires special attention and consultation with a doctor. Do not self -medicate and do not use dietary supplement without a doctor’s appointment. Remember that a balanced diet is the basis of health during pregnancy. Try to use a variety of products rich in vitamins and minerals. If necessary, the doctor may prescribe specialized vitamin-mineral complexes or individual dietary supplements to replenish the nutrient deficiency.