The effect of vitamins on the development of the fetus

The effect of vitamins on the development of the fetus

Chapter 1: Fundamental principles and stages of fetal development

The development of the fetus is a complex and dynamic process that begins from the moment of fertilization of the egg and ending with the birth of a child. This process is divided into three main stages: prembreal (up to 2 weeks), embryonic (from 3 to 8 weeks) and fetal (from 9 weeks to birth). Each stage is characterized by specific needs for nutrients, including vitamins, to ensure the correct formation of organs and systems.

• Preembreal period: During this period, the zygote is crushed, the formation of blastocysts and its implantation into the wall of the uterus. The most important factor at this stage is to provide a sufficient amount of energy and building materials for cells, as well as protection against oxidative stress.

• The embryonic period (organogenesis): This is a critical period when all the main organs and systems of the fetus are laid. It is at this time that the embryo is most vulnerable to the effects of teratogenic factors, including deficiency or excess of certain vitamins. The disadvantage of folic acid, for example, can lead to defects in the nervous tube, such as the back of bifid. Vitamin A in excess doses can cause defects in the development of the heart, nervous system and limbs.

• Fettal period: During this period, the growth and maturation of already formed organs and systems occurs. There is an active development of the brain, lungs, liver and other organs. At this time, the vitamins necessary for the growth of bones (vitamin D), the development of the nervous system (vitamins of group B) and hematopoies (vitamin B12) are especially important.

Adequate consumption of vitamins during pregnancy is crucial for the health of the mother and child. Vitamin deficiency can lead to various complications of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, premature birth and low weight at birth. In addition, a deficiency of vitamins can negatively affect the long -term health of the child, increasing the risk of developing chronic diseases in the future.

Chapter 2: The role of vitamin A (retinol) in the development of the fetus

Vitamin A plays an important role in vision, immune function, growth and differentiation of cells. During pregnancy, it is necessary for the proper development of the eyes, heart, lungs, kidneys and bones of the fetus. It is also important for the development of the immune system and protection against infections.

• Action mechanisms: Vitamin A acts as a transcription regulator of genes, controlling the expression of genes involved in the development and differentiation of cells. It also participates in the synthesis of glycoproteins necessary for the formation of intercellular matrix and cellular adhesion.

• Recommended dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin A for pregnant women is 770 μg Re (retinol equivalents). It is important to note that excessive consumption of vitamin A, especially in the form of retinol, can be teratogenic and lead to malformations of the fetus. The upper permissible level of vitamin A consumption A for pregnant women is 3,000 mcg of re per day.

• Sources of vitamin A: Vitamin A is found in animal products, such as liver, eggs, dairy products and fish oil. Provitamin A (beta-carotene) is found in plant products, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and broccoli. Beta-carotene turns into vitamin A in the body, but its assimilation is less effective than the assimilation of retinol.

• Vitamin A deficiency: Vitamin A deficiency can lead to visual impairment, increased susceptibility to infections, slowing down the growth and development of the fetus. In severe cases, vitamin A deficiency can lead to congenital anomalies such as defects of the eyes, heart and lungs.

• Toxicity of vitamin A: Excessive consumption of vitamin A, especially in the form of retinol, can be toxic and lead to hypervitaminosis A. The symptoms of hypervitaminosis A include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, bones and joint pain, hair loss and skin peeling. In pregnant women, hypervitaminosis and can lead to malformations of the fetus, such as defects of the heart, nervous system and limbs. Therefore, pregnant women are recommended to avoid taking high doses of vitamin A and use it mainly from plant sources containing beta-carotene.

Chapter 3: The role of B vitamins in the development of the fetus

B vitamins play an important role in energy metabolism, functioning of the nervous system and hematopoiesis. During pregnancy, they are necessary for the proper development of the brain, nervous system and hematopoietic organs of the fetus.

• Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): Tiamine is necessary for carbohydrate metabolism and functioning of the nervous system. Tiamine deficiency can lead to Beri Berie, a disease characterized by damage to the nervous system, heart and muscles. The recommended daily dose of thiamine for pregnant women is 1.4 mg. Tiamin sources include whole grain products, meat, legumes and nuts.

• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Riboflavin is necessary for the energy exchange and functioning of the visual analyzer. Riboflavin deficiency can lead to the damage to the mucous membranes, skin and eyes. The recommended daily dose of riboflavin for pregnant women is 1.4 mg. Riboflavin sources include dairy products, meat, eggs, green vegetables and enriched cereals.

• Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Niacin is necessary for the energy exchange and functioning of the nervous system. Niacin deficiency can lead to Pellagra, a disease characterized by skin lesion, gastrointestinal tract and nervous system. The recommended daily dose of niacin for pregnant women is 18 mg NE (niacin equivalents). Sources of Niacin include meat, fish, poultry, peanuts and enriched cereals.

• Vitamin B5 (pantotenic acid): Pantotenic acid is necessary for energy metabolism and synthesis of hormones. The deficiency of pantothenic acid is rare, since it is widespread in food. The recommended daily dose of pantothenic acid for pregnant women is 6 mg. Sources of pantothenic acid include meat, eggs, dairy products, legumes and whole grains.

• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): Pyridoxine is necessary for protein metabolism, the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the functioning of the immune system. A deficiency of pyridoxine can lead to anemia, convulsions and damage to the nervous system. The recommended daily dose of pyridoxine for pregnant women is 1.9 mg. Sources of pyridoxine include meat, fish, poultry, bananas, avocados and enriched cereals.

• Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Biotin is necessary for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Biotin deficiency is rare, since it is synthesized by bacteria in the intestines. The recommended daily dose of biotin for pregnant women is 30 μg. Sources of biotin include liver, eggs, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

• Vitamin B9 (folic acid): Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, as well as for division and growth of cells. Folic acid deficiency can lead to defects in the nerve tube in the fetus, such as the back of bifid and anencephalus. The recommended daily dose of folic acid for pregnant women is 600 μg DFE (equivalents of dietary folate). It is important to start taking folic acid a few months before conception in order to reduce the risk of defects in the nervous tube. Sources of folic acid include green leafy vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits and enriched cereals.

• Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): Cobalamin is necessary for the functioning of the nervous system and blood formation. Cobalamin deficiency can lead to anemia and damage to the nervous system. The recommended daily dose of cobalamine for pregnant women is 2.6 mcg. Sources of cobalamine include animal products, such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products. Vegetarian and vegans are recommended to take additives with vitamin B12.

Chapter 4: The role of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in the development of the fetus

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays an important role in immune function, collagen synthesis and iron absorption. During pregnancy, it is necessary to protect cells from oxidative stress, maintain the health of blood vessels and fetal bones, as well as for the assimilation of iron necessary for blood formation.

• Action mechanisms: Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of collagen, the main structural protein of connective tissue. It is also a cofactor for enzymes involved in the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters. In addition, vitamin C is an antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals.

• Recommended dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C for pregnant women is 85 mg. The upper permissible level of vitamin C consumption for pregnant women is 2000 mg per day.

• Sources of vitamin C: Vitamin C is found in fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, pepper, broccoli and Brussels cabbage.

• Vitamin C deficiency: Vitamin C deficiency can lead to scurvy, disease, characterized by weakness, bleeding gums, hemorrhages under the skin and slow healing of wounds. In pregnant women, vitamin C deficiency can lead to premature birth, low weight at birth and increased susceptibility to infections.

• Vitamin C toxicity: Vitamin C is usually considered safe, even in high doses. However, in some people, high doses of vitamin C can cause diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain.

Chapter 5: The role of vitamin D (calciferol) in the development of the fetus

Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of the exchange of calcium and phosphorus, as well as in the functioning of the immune system. During pregnancy, it is necessary for the proper development of the bones and teeth of the fetus, as well as to maintain the health of the immune system of the mother and child.

• Action mechanisms: Vitamin D turns into an active form (calcitriol) in the kidneys. Calcitriol binds to vitamin D receptors in the cells of the intestines, bones and kidneys, regulating calcium absorption in the intestines, mobilization of bone calcium and reabsorption of calcium in the kidneys.

• Recommended dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin D for pregnant women is 15 μg (600 IU). Some experts recommend higher doses of vitamin D, especially for women with vitamin D deficiency. The upper permissible level of vitamin D consumption for pregnant women is 100 μg (4000 IU) per day.

• Sources of vitamin D: Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. It is also contained in some foods such as fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolk and enriched products (milk, cereals).

• Vitamin D deficiency: Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in children, a disease characterized by bone deformation. In pregnant women, vitamin D deficiency can lead to preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature birth and low weight at birth.

• Toxicity of vitamin D: Excessive consumption of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia, a state characterized by an increased level of calcium in the blood. Symptoms of hypercalcemia include nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness and heart rhythm. In pregnant women, hypervitaminosis D can lead to calcification of the soft tissues of the fetus.

Chapter 6: The role of vitamin E (tocopherol) in the development of the fetus

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. During pregnancy, it is necessary to protect the fetus from oxidative stress, maintain the health of blood vessels and the development of the immune system.

• Action mechanisms: Vitamin E is a fat -soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from oxidation with free radicals. It also participates in the regulation of cell alarm and genes expression.

• Recommended dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin E for pregnant women is 15 mg. The upper permissible level of vitamin E consumption for pregnant women is 1000 mg per day.

• Sources of vitamin E: Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables and enriched cereals.

• Vitamin deficiency is: Vitamin E deficiency is rare, since it is widespread in food. In premature babies, vitamin E deficiency can lead to hemolytic anemia.

• Vitamin E toxicity: Vitamin E is usually considered safe, even in high doses. However, in some people, high doses of vitamin E can cause diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain. In rare cases, high doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding.

Chapter 7: The role of vitamin K (phyllokhinon) in the development of the fetus

Vitamin K is necessary for coagulation of blood and bone health. During pregnancy, it is necessary to prevent bleeding in newborns and maintaining the health of the bones of the mother and child.

• Action mechanisms: Vitamin K is a cofactor for enzymes involved in the synthesis of blood coagulation factors. He also plays a role in carboxylation of osteocalcine, protein, which is necessary for the mineralization of bones.

• Recommended dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin K for pregnant women is 90 mcg.

• Sources of vitamin K: Vitamin K is found in green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli and Brussels cabbage. It is also synthesized by bacteria in the intestines.

• Vitamin K deficiency: Vitamin K deficiency can lead to bleeding. In newborns, vitamin K deficiency can lead to hemorrhagic disease of newborns, a serious condition that can lead to damage to the brain or death. To prevent hemorrhagic disease of newborns, all newborns are injected with vitamin K immediately after birth.

• Toxicity of vitamin K: Vitamin K is usually considered safe, even in high doses. However, in some people, high doses of vitamin K can interact with anticoagulants.

Chapter 8: Recommendations for taking vitamins during pregnancy

During pregnancy, it is important to obtain a sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals to maintain the health of the mother and the child. The best way to get a sufficient amount of nutrients is a balanced diet, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat proteins and dairy products.

However, many pregnant women do not receive a sufficient amount of certain nutrients only from food. Therefore, the doctor can recommend taking polyvitamins for pregnant women. Polyvitamins for pregnant women contain vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of the mother and child, such as folic acid, iron, vitamin D and calcium.

It is important to discuss the intake of vitamins with a doctor to make sure that you get a sufficient amount of necessary nutrients and avoid taking excess doses of vitamins. You should not take high doses of vitamins without consulting a doctor, as this can be harmful to you and your child.

In addition, it is important to remember that polyvitamins for pregnant women do not replace healthy diet. Continue to eat in a balanced and diverse to get all the necessary nutrients for the health of the mother and the child.

Chapter 9: Factors affecting the need for vitamins during pregnancy

The need for vitamins during pregnancy may vary depending on various factors, such as:

• Mother’s age: Adolescents, pregnant women, need more certain nutrients in more than adult pregnant women.

• Multiple pregnancy: Women, pregnant with twins or triple, need more certain nutrients than women pregnant with one child.

• Mother’s health status: Women with certain diseases, such as diabetes or diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, may need more certain nutrients.

• Mother’s food habits: Vegetarians and vegans may need additives with vitamin B12, iron and zinc.

The doctor can evaluate your individual needs for vitamins and recommend suitable additives.

Chapter 10: The consequences of the deficiency and excess of vitamins for the development of the fetus

Both deficiency and excess vitamins can negatively affect the development of the fetus. It is important to maintain a balance and receive a sufficient amount of necessary vitamins, not exceeding the permissible upper levels of consumption.

• The consequences of vitamin deficiency: The deficiency of vitamins can lead to various complications of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, premature birth, low birth weight and congenital anomalies.

• The consequences of excess vitamins: Excessive consumption of certain vitamins, such as vitamin A, can be teratogenic and lead to malformations of the fetus.

Therefore, it is important to discuss the intake of vitamins with a doctor to make sure that you get a sufficient amount of necessary nutrients and avoid taking excess doses of vitamins.