B vitamins for pregnant and nursing

B vitamins for pregnant women and nursing women: Full guide

I. Introduction: The importance of group B vitamins for mother and child

B vitamins, also known as the B-complex, are a group of eight water-soluble vitamins that play a key role in numerous physiological processes. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the need for these vitamins increases significantly, since they are necessary both for the health of the mother and for the optimal development and growth of the child. The lack of B vitamins can lead to serious complications, so it is important to understand their role, sources and correct dosages. This article is examined in detail by each vitamin of group B, its functions, recommended doses, sources and consequences of deficiency in pregnant and lactating women.

II. A detailed overview of group B vitamins:

A. Tiamin (vitamin B1): Energy and nervous system

1. Functions:

   • Connection of carbohydrates into energy: Tiamine is a coherent in carbohydrate metabolism, providing the body’s body with the energy of the body. It is especially important for the brain and nervous system, which largely depend on glucose.
   • The function of the nervous system: He plays a role in the transfer of nerve impulses and maintaining the health of nerve cells.
   • The function of the cardiovascular system: Participates in maintaining normal heart function.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 1.4 mg/day
   • Lactating: 1.4 mg/day

3. Sources of food:

   • Whole grain products (brown rice, oatmeal, whole grain bread)
   • Enriched cereals and bread
   • Legumes (peas, beans, lentils)
   • Pork
   • Sunflower seeds
   • Nuts (macadamia)

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • Fatigue and weakness
   • Irritability
   • Decrease in appetite
   • Muscle weakness
   • Constipation
   • In severe cases: Beri-Buri (neurological and cardiovascular disorders)

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • An increased risk of fatigue and weakness that makes it difficult to care for the child.
   • Potential violation of the development of the nervous system of the child.
   • In extreme cases, the risk of developing Bari Beri in a child if the mother experiences a serious shortage.

B. Riboflavin (vitamin B2): growth and vision

1. Functions:

   • Energy production: Riboflavin is involved in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins, contributing to the release of energy from food.
   • Growth and development: It is necessary for the normal growth and development of tissues.
   • Health of the skin and mucous membranes: Supports the health of the skin, eyes and mucous membranes.
   • Antioxidant activity: Participates in the restoration of glutathione, an important antioxidant.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 1.4 mg/day
   • Nursing: 1.6 mg/day

3. Sources of food:

   • Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
   • Eggs
   • Meat (especially the liver)
   • Vegetables (spinach, mushrooms, broccoli)
   • Enriched cereals and bread
   • Almond

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • Painful cracks in the corners of the mouth (Angular stomatitis)
   • Language inflammation (glossitis)
   • Seborrheic dermatitis (oily, peeling skin)
   • Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
   • Itching and redness of the eyes
   • Anemia

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • The increased risk of angular stomatitis and glossitis, which can complicate food intake.
   • Potential disruption of the development of the nervous system and the visual function of the child.
   • Increased susceptibility to infections.

C. NiaCin (vitamin B3): Metabolism and skin

1. Functions:

   • Power transformation into energy: Niacin is a coherent in many metabolic reactions, including the transformation of carbohydrates, fats and proteins into energy.
   • Skin health: Supports the health of the skin, hair and mucous membranes.
   • The function of the nervous system: It is necessary for the normal operation of the nervous system.
   • Close -to -level decrease in cholesterol: In high doses (under the supervision of a doctor) can be used to reduce cholesterol.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 18 mg ne (niacin equivalent)/day
   • Lactating: 17 mg ne/day

3. Sources of food:

   • Meat (especially the liver)
   • Bird (chicken, turkey)
   • Fish (tuna, salmon)
   • Nuts
   • Seeds
   • Whole grain products
   • Enriched cereals and bread

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • Pellagra (dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia) – is rare in developed countries.
   • Fatigue
   • Decrease in appetite
   • Headaches
   • Irritability
   • Language inflammation (glossitis)

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • The increased risk of Pellagra, although this is a rarity.
   • Potential violation of the development of the nervous system of the child.
   • Irritability and fatigue that make it difficult to care for the child.

D. Pantotenic acid (vitamin B5): Coherent A

1. Functions:

   • Coerment A (COA) synthesis: Pantotenic acid is a component of coherent A, which plays a central role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins.
   • Synthesis of hormones and cholesterol: Participates in the synthesis of hormones, cholesterol and fatty acids.
   • Skin health: Supports skin health.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 6 mg/day
   • Nursing: 7 mg/day

3. Sources of food:

   • Widespread in food, so the deficiency is rare.
   • Meat
   • Eggs
   • Dairy products
   • Vegetables (broccoli, avocado, mushrooms)
   • Whole grain products
   • Legumes

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • The deficiency is extremely rare.
   • It can be manifested by fatigue, headache, irritability, numbness and tingling in the arms and legs.

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • Due to the rarity of the deficiency, the specific consequences for pregnant women and nursing women have been little studied.
   • In theory, it can affect metabolism and energy production.

E. Pyridoxine (vitamin B6): Squirrels and brain

1. Functions:

   • Amino acid metabolism: Pyridoxine is a coherent in many reactions associated with the metabolism of amino acids (protein building blocks).
   • Synthesis neurotransmitted: Participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine, which regulate mood, sleep and appetite.
   • The formation of hemoglobin: It is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, carrying oxygen in the blood.
   • Immune function: Supports immune function.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 1.9 mg/day
   • Nursing: 2.0 mg/day

3. Sources of food:

   • Meat
   • Bird
   • Fish
   • Legumes
   • Nuts
   • Seeds
   • Whole grain products
   • Banans
   • Avocado

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • Depression
   • Irritability
   • Anemia
   • Dermatitis
   • Convulsions
   • Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs (peripheral neuropathy)

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • An increased risk of depression and irritability that may affect the care of the child.
   • Anemia.
   • Potential violation of the development of the nervous system of the child.
   • In rare cases, convulsions.

F. BIOTIN (vitamin B7): skin, hair and nails

1. Functions:

   • Metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins: Biotin is a cooferment in reactions involved in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
   • Health of the skin, hair and nails: He plays a role in maintaining the health of the skin, hair and nails.
   • Genetic expression: Participates in the regulation of genetic expression.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 30 μg/day
   • Nursing: 35 mcg/day

3. Sources of food:

   • Eggs
   • Meat (especially the liver)
   • Nuts
   • Seeds
   • Fish
   • Sweet potato
   • Avocado
   • It is produced by bacteria in the intestines (in small quantities).

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • The deficiency is rare.
   • It can be manifested by hair loss (alopecia), dermatitis, brittle nails, depression, fatigue.

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • Although the deficiency is rare, it can lead to hair loss and dermatitis, which can affect self -esteem.
   • The potential influence on the metabolism and development of the child.

G. Folic acid (vitamin B9): development of the nervous tube

1. Functions:

   • Synthesis DNA and RNA: Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, the genetic material of the cells.
   • Cell division: Important for quick division of cells, especially during pregnancy.
   • The development of the nervous tube: He plays a decisive role in the development of the fetal nervous tube during the first weeks of pregnancy.
   • Formation of red blood cells: It is necessary for the formation of healthy red blood cells.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 600 μg DFE (dietary folate equivalent)/day
   • Nursing: 500 mcg DFE/day
   • Women planning pregnancy are recommended to start taking folic acid (400 mcg) a few months before conception.

3. Sources of food:

   • Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, Romen salad)
   • Legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas)
   • Enriched cereals and bread
   • Citrus fruit
   • Avocado
   • Liver

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • Megaloblastic anemia (large, immature red blood cells)
   • Fatigue
   • Weakness
   • Irritability
   • Language inflammation (glossitis)
   • Loss of appetite
   • Increased risk of defects in the nervous tube in the fetus (for example, the back of the bifid).

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • A significantly increased risk of defects in the nervous tube in the fetus, such as the back of bifid and anencephalus.
   • Megaloblastic anemia.
   • An increased risk of pregnancy complications, such as premature birth and low birth weight.
   • Increased risk of postpartum depression.

H. Kobalamin (vitamin B12): Nervous system and DNA

1. Functions:

   • DNA synthesis: Cobalamin is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
   • The function of the nervous system: Supports the health of nerve cells and a myelin shell that protects the nerve fibers.
   • Formation of red blood cells: It is necessary for the formation of healthy red blood cells.

2. Recommended dosage for pregnant and lactating:

   • Pregnant: 2.6 μg/day
   • Nursing: 2.8 mcg/day

3. Sources of food:

   • Contained mainly in animal products.
   • Meat
   • Bird
   • Fish
   • Eggs
   • Dairy products
   • Enriched products (for example, vegetable milk, yeast)

4. Deficiency symptoms:

   • Megaloblastic anemia
   • Fatigue
   • Weakness
   • Numbness and tingling in the arms and legs (peripheral neuropathy)
   • Memory problems
   • Depression
   • Confusion
   • In severe cases: irreversible damage to the nervous system.

5. The consequences of the deficiency for pregnant and lactating:

   • Megaloblastic anemia.
   • An increased risk of neurological problems in the child, especially if the mother of a vegetarian or vegan and does not accept B12 additives.
   • Potential violation of the development of the nervous system of the child.
   • Fatigue and weakness that impedes the child’s care.
   • Vegetarian and vegans are strongly recommended to take B12 additives during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

III. Risks and side effects of overdose of group B vitamins:

Although group B vitamins are water -soluble and excess is usually excreted in the urine, high doses of certain vitamins can lead to side effects. It is important to follow the recommended dosages and consult a doctor before taking high doses of vitamin additives.

• Niacin: High doses can cause redness of the skin (niacin -tide), itching, nausea and liver damage.
• Pyridoxin (B6): Excessive consumption (more than 100 mg per day) can lead to peripheral neuropathy (nerves damage).
• Folic acid: Although it is usually considered safe, high doses can mask vitamin B12 deficiency and make it difficult to diagnose.

IV. The interaction of group B vitamins with drugs:

B vitamins can interact with some drugs. It is important to inform the doctor about all the drugs taken and additives.

• Some antibiotics: They can reduce the absorption of vitamin B12.
• Anticonvulsants: They can affect the metabolism of folic acid and vitamin B6.
• Metformin (a medicine from diabetes): It can reduce the absorption of vitamin B12.
• Proton pump inhibitors (medicines for heartburn): They can reduce the absorption of vitamin B12.

V. Diagnosis of B vitamins deficiency:

Diagnosis of a deficiency of group B vitamins usually includes a blood test to determine the level of vitamins in the blood. The doctor can also take into account the symptoms and history of the patient’s disease.

VI. Strategies for optimizing consumption of group B vitamins during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

• A variety of nutrition: Eat a variety of foods rich in Big-grain products, including whole grain products, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, seeds, dark green leafy vegetables and fruits.
• Enriched products: Choose enriched products such as cereals and bread to increase the consumption of B vitamins B.
• Supplements: If your food does not provide a sufficient amount of B vitamins, consider the possibility of taking polyvitamin complexes for pregnant and nursing women containing group B vitamins. Consult a doctor to determine the right dosage. This is especially important for vegetarian and vegan, which may require adding B12.
• Proper cooking: Some vitamins of group B can be destroyed by heating or exposure to light. Prepare the products steamed, bake or fry them over low heat to preserve nutrients.
• Minimize food processing: Processed products often contain less B vitamins than unprocessed products. Choose whole, unprocessed products when possible.

VII. The role of B vitamins in the development of the fetus and child:

B vitamins play a vital role in the development of the fetus and child, affecting various aspects, including:

• The development of the nervous system: Folic acid, vitamin B12 and other vitamins of group B are necessary for the normal development of the nervous tube and the brain of the fetus.
• Brain development: B vitamins are involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and other substances necessary for the development of the brain and cognitive functions.
• Growth and development: B vitamins are necessary for the growth and development of tissues and organs.
• Blood formation: Folic acid and vitamin B12 are necessary for the formation of healthy red blood cells.
• Energy metabolism: B vitamins help transform food into energy necessary for growth and development.

VIII. Myths and misconceptions about group B vitamins during pregnancy and breastfeeding:

• Myth: All pregnant women need the same doses of B vitamins B.
  • Fact: The need for B vitamins can vary depending on individual factors, such as nutrition, health status and medication. It is important to consult a doctor to determine individual needs.
• Myth: If I eat well, I do not need additives of B vitamins B.
  • Fact: Even with a balanced diet, it can be difficult to get a sufficient amount of certain vitamins of group B, such as folic acid and vitamin B12, especially during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Additives may be necessary to provide adequate consumption.
• Myth: Reception of high doses of group B vitamins is always useful.
  • Fact: Reception of excessive doses of B vitamins can lead to side effects. It is important to follow the recommended dosages and consult a doctor before taking high doses of vitamin additives.
• Myth: B vitamins treat all problems during pregnancy.
  • Fact: B vitamins are important for the health of the mother and child, but they are not a panacea. They cannot cure all the problems associated with pregnancy.

IX. Additional considerations:

• Vegetarian and vegan diet: Vegetarians and vegans should especially carefully monitor the consumption of vitamin B12, since it is mainly found in animal products. It is recommended to take B12 additives.
• Multiple pregnancy: Women with multiple pregnancy may require a higher dose of folic acid and other vitamins of group B.
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as Crohn and Celiac disease, can violate the absorption of B vitamins B.
• Smoking and drinking alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption can reduce the level of group B vitamins in the body.

X. Conclusion:

B vitamins play an important role in maintaining the health of pregnant women and lactating women, as well as in ensuring the optimal development and growth of the child. Understanding the role of each vitamin of group B, its sources, recommended doses and the consequences of the deficit is necessary to make reasonable decisions on the nutrition and administration of additives. Consulting with a doctor or a qualified nutritionist will help you draw up an individual nutrition plan and reception of additives that meets the needs of a particular woman during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Remember that a variety of and balanced nutrition, as well as taking recommended vitamin additives if necessary, contribute to a healthy pregnancy and a healthy child.