Dietary supplements during pregnancy: what is possible and impossible

Section 1: Introduction to the world of dietary supplements and pregnancy: necessity and warnings

Pregnancy is a unique physiological period that requires increased attention to nutrition and the general state of health of a woman. The need for vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances increases to ensure not only the well -being of the mother, but also the full development of the fetus. In the conditions of modern rhythm of life and often imperfect quality food, many future mothers think about taking biologically active additives (dietary supplements). However, the use of dietary supplements during pregnancy is an extremely delicate issue, requiring a balanced approach and mandatory consultation with a doctor. The uncontrolled reception even seemingly harmless substances can harm both the mother and the child.

It is necessary to clearly understand that dietary supplements are not a medicine. Unlike drugs, dietary supplements do not go through strict clinical trials aimed at proof of effectiveness and safety. This means that the manufacturer is not obliged to provide comprehensive data on the effect of additives on the body, especially in such a vulnerable period as pregnancy. The composition of dietary supplements can also vary widely, and not always declared components correspond to the actual. In addition, dietary supplements can interact with drugs that a woman takes according to medical reasons, enhancing or weakening their effect, or causing undesirable side effects.

Despite all the warnings, in some cases, taking dietary supplements during pregnancy can be justified and even necessary. For example, a deficiency of folic acid in the first trimester of pregnancy has been proven increases the risk of developing defects in the nervous tube in the fetus. In such situations, the doctor may prescribe folic acid additives. Also, in some cases, the use of vitamin D, iron, iodine and other substances can be recommended if a blood test revealed their deficiency in the body of the future mother.

The key principle of receiving dietary supplements during pregnancy is an individual approach. There is no universal scheme suitable for all women. It is necessary to take into account the state of health of the woman, her nutrition, the presence of concomitant diseases, the results of the analyzes and other factors. The decision to receive dietary supplements should be made only by a doctor who will evaluate all risks and advantages and select the optimal dosage and admission scheme. Self -medication is unacceptable and can have serious consequences.

Section 2: Vitamins and minerals often prescribed during pregnancy: benefits, dosage and contraindications

Most often, vitamins and minerals are prescribed during pregnancy, the deficiency of which can adversely affect the health of the mother and child. These include folic acid, vitamin D, iron, iodine, calcium and omega-3 fatty acids. Consider each of them in more detail:

• Folic acid (vitamin B9): It is extremely important for the formation of the nervous system of the fetus, especially in the first weeks of pregnancy. Folic acid deficiency can lead to the development of defects in the nervous tube, such as the crevice of the spine (Spina Bifida) and anencephaly. Recommended dosage for pregnant women-400-800 μg per day. In the presence of risk factors, such as taking certain drugs or a hereditary predisposition to defects in the nervous tube, the dosage can be increased to 4-5 mg per day. There are practically no contraindications, with the exception of individual intolerance.

• Vitamin D: It is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are important for the formation of the bones and teeth of the fetus. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy can increase the risk of rickets in the newborn, as well as increase the risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes in the mother. Recommended dosage-600-800 IU per day. In some cases, with a pronounced deficiency, the doctor may prescribe higher doses, but under strict control. Contraindications: hypervitaminosis D, hypercalcemia.

• Iron: It is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen to the organs and tissues of the mother and fetus. During pregnancy, the need for iron increases significantly, since the volume of blood increases and the placenta is formed. Iron deficiency can lead to the development of iron deficiency anemia, which is manifested by weakness, fatigue, dizziness and pallor of the skin. Recommended dosage-30-60 mg per day. In the presence of anemia, the doctor may prescribe higher doses. Contraindications: hemochromatosis, hemosiderosis.

• Iodine: It is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. During pregnancy, iodine deficiency can lead to the development of cretinism in a child, as well as increase the risk of miscarriage and stillbirth. Recommended dosage-150-250 μg per day. Contraindications: hyperthyroidism.

• Calcium: It is necessary for the formation of the bones and teeth of the fetus, as well as for the normal functioning of the muscles and nerves of the mother. During pregnancy, the need for calcium increases, since the fetus actively takes calcium from the mother’s body. Recommended dosage-1000-1300 mg per day. Contraindications: hypercalcemia, hyperparathyroidism.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (DGK and EPK): Important for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus, as well as to reduce the risk of premature birth and postpartum depression. Recommended dosage-200-300 mg of dgk per day. Contraindications: individual intolerance.

It is important to note that all these vitamins and minerals can be obtained from food. However, in some cases, with inferior nutrition or the presence of a deficit, the doctor may recommend a dietary supplement. Before the intake, it is necessary to take blood tests in order to determine the level of necessary substances and choose the optimal dosage.

Section 3: Other popular dietary supplements during pregnancy: validity of use and potential risks

In addition to vitamins and minerals, there are a number of other dietary supplements that are popular in pregnant women. However, the validity of their application and potential risks often raise questions. Consider some of them:

• Probiotics: They contain useful bacteria that help maintain a healthy intestinal microflora. Some studies show that taking probiotics during pregnancy can reduce the risk of allergies in a child, as well as improve digestion in the mother. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results. Contraindications: individual intolerance.

• Prebiotics: Contain substances that serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Prebiotics can improve digestion and strengthen immunity. However, as in the case of probiotics, additional studies are needed to assess their effectiveness and safety during pregnancy. Contraindications: individual intolerance.

• Plant additives: Many pregnant women are interested in the use of plant additives to alleviate the symptoms of pregnancy, such as nausea, swelling and constipation. However, it should be remembered that many plant additives can be dangerous during pregnancy, as they can cause uterine contractions, bleeding and other undesirable effects. The use of plant additives during pregnancy is permissible only as a doctor’s prescription and under his strict control. Some plant additives that should be avoided during pregnancy: echinacea, ginseng, St. John’s wort, crush bark, senna, tansy, wormwood.

• Collagen: Protein, which is the main building material of connective tissue. Some women take collagen during pregnancy to improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails, as well as for the prevention of stretch marks. However, there are no sufficient scientific data confirming the effectiveness and safety of collagen during pregnancy.

• Magnesium: A mineral that is involved in many physiological processes in the body. Some doctors prescribe magnesium to pregnant women to prevent seizures, reduce blood pressure and improve sleep. However, it must be borne in mind that high doses of magnesium can cause diarrhea and other side effects. Contraindications: renal failure.

When choosing dietary supplements during pregnancy, it is necessary to pay attention to the composition, dosage, manufacturer and the availability of quality certificates. Preference should be given to dietary supplements that have passed clinical trials and an approved doctor. Do not trust the advertisement and the advice of friends. Remember that your health and your unborn child are in your hands.

Section 4: Bad, categorically prohibited during pregnancy: list and rationale

There are a number of dietary supplements that are strictly prohibited during pregnancy, as they can cause serious harm to the health of mother and child. These include:

• Vitamin A in high doses (retinol): In high doses, vitamin A has a teratogenic effect, that is, it can cause congenital extremity in the fetus, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. It should be avoided taking dietary supplements containing vitamin A in the form of retinol in doses exceeding the recommended. Beta-carotene, which is provitamin A, is considered safer.

• Vitamin E in high doses: Some studies show that high doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of congenital heart defects in the fetus. It should be avoided taking dietary supplements containing vitamin E in doses exceeding the recommended.

• Diet for weight loss: Most dietary supplements for weight loss contain substances that can be dangerous during pregnancy, such as stimulants, diuretic and laxatives. Losing weight during pregnancy is not recommended, as this can adversely affect the development of the fetus.

• Diet for increasing muscle mass: These additives often contain anabolic steroids, which can cause serious impaired fetal development, including masculinization in girls.

• Dietary supplement with the content of the ephedra: The ephedra is a stimulator that can increase blood pressure and cause heart arrhythmias. The reception of the ephedra during pregnancy can lead to premature birth, placental detachment and other complications.

• Dietary supplement with a yochimbin content: Yochimbin is an alpha-blocker that can increase blood pressure and cause anxiety and anxiety. Reception of a yocimbin during pregnancy can be dangerous for the mother and fetus.

• Some herbs: As mentioned earlier, many plant additives can be dangerous during pregnancy. It should be avoided taking the following herbs: echinacea, ginseng, St. John’s wort, crushing bark, senna, tansy, wormwood, Dong Kuai (Diaghil), black bogs, blue bogs.

Remember that this list is not exhaustive. Before taking any dietary supplement during pregnancy, you need to consult a doctor.

Section 5: How to choose the right dietary supplement for pregnant women: quality and safety criteria

The choice of dietary supplements for pregnant women is a responsible step that requires an attentive approach. To minimize risks and get the maximum benefit, it is necessary to be guided by the following quality and safety criteria:

• Consultation with a doctor: The first and most important step is a consultation with a doctor. Only a doctor can evaluate your health status, identify nutrient deficiency and choose the optimal dietary supplement scheme. Do not self -medicate!

• Study of the composition: Carefully study the composition of dietary supplements. Make sure that there are no ingredients that are contraindicated to you or can be dangerous during pregnancy. Pay attention to the dosage of active substances.

• The selection of the manufacturer: Preference should be given to well -known and reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and comply with strict quality standards. Avoid buying dietary supplements from unverified sellers or in doubtful places.

• Availability of quality certificates: Check if the dietary supplements have quality certificates confirming its compliance with the established requirements. In Russia, such a certificate is a certificate of state registration (SGR), which is issued by Rospotrebnadzor.

• Consumer reviews: Read the reviews of other consumers about dietary supplements. However, you should not fully rely on reviews, as they can be subjective and not always correspond to reality.

• Output form: Choose a dietary supplement in a convenient form of release for you, for example, in the form of tablets, capsules, chewing loafers or powder. Make sure the dietary supplement is easy to swallow and does not cause discomfort.

• Storage conditions: Follow the storage conditions indicated on the package of dietary supplements. Do not store dietary supplements in places accessible to children.

• Best before date: Before receiving dietary supplement, check the expiration date. Do not take dietary supplement with an expired shelf life.

• Side effects: Carefully follow your condition during the admission of dietary supplements. When any side effects appear, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rash or itching, stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.

Remember that dietary supplement is not a panacea. They cannot replace full and balanced diet. Try to receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals from food. Bad should be considered only as an addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Section 6: Nutrition as an alternative dietary supplement: how to make a balanced diet for pregnant women

In most cases, with proper and balanced diet, a pregnant woman can get all the necessary vitamins and minerals from food, avoiding dietary supplements. A balanced diet for pregnant women should include the following products:

• Folic acid: Green leaf vegetables (spinach, broccoli, salad), legumes (beans, lentils, peas), asparagus, avocados, citrus fruits.

• Vitamin D: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolk, liver, mushrooms, enriched products (milk, juices, flakes). It is important to note that it is difficult to get a sufficient amount of vitamin D only from food, so additives are often recommended, especially in winter.

• Iron: Red meat (beef, lamb), poultry (chicken, turkey), liver, legumes (beans, lentils, peas), spinach, enriched cereals. For better absorption of iron, it is recommended to use it along with products containing vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries, pepper).

• Iodine: Sea fish (cod, picks, sida), seafood (shrimp, mussels, squids), iodized salt.

• Calcium: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), green leafy vegetables (broccoli, spinach), enriched products (juices, tofu).

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), flax seeds, walnuts, linseed oil.

In addition to the above products, whole grain products (bread, cereals), vegetables and fruits of various colors, low -fat meat and poultry, eggs, nuts and seeds should include the diet of a pregnant woman.

It is important to avoid the use of the following products during pregnancy:

• Raw or insufficiently cooked meat, poultry and seafood: Bacteria and parasites may contain that can cause food poisoning and infections.

• Nepasturized dairy products: May contain bacteria, such as Listeria, which can be dangerous for pregnant women.

• Big fish containing a lot of mercury: Mercury can negatively affect the development of the nervous system of the fetus. The use of sharks, a-fish, royal macrel and a large-eyed tuna should avoid the use of a shark.

• Caffeine: High doses of caffeine can increase the risk of miscarriage and premature birth. It is recommended to limit caffeine consumption up to 200 mg per day (one or two cups of coffee).

• Alcohol: The use of alcohol during pregnancy is strictly prohibited, as it can cause serious impaired fetal development, including fetal alcohol syndrome.

• Sweet soda drinks and foods high sugar: They can lead to a set of excess weight and the development of gestational diabetes.

• Processed products and fast food: They contain a lot of salt, sugar and harmful fats, as well as few nutrients.

The compilation of a balanced diet for pregnant women requires certain knowledge and planning. If you experience difficulties with this, consult a doctor or a nutritionist.

Section 7: Bad when planning pregnancy: early preparation of the body

Reception of dietary supplements can be useful not only during pregnancy, but also at the planning stage. In advance preparation of the body for pregnancy allows you to improve the state of health of a woman, eliminate nutrient deficiency and increase the chances of successful conception and bearing a child.

Most often, when planning pregnancy, the following dietary supplements are prescribed:

• Folic acid: It is recommended to start taking folic acid 1-3 months before conception in a dosage of 400 μg per day. Folic acid contributes to the normal development of the nervous system of the fetus and reduces the risk of developing defects in the nervous tube.

• Vitamin D: If a woman has a deficiency of vitamin D, it is recommended to start taking additives a few months before conception. The optimal level of vitamin D is important for the health of bones and the immune system, as well as for the normal function of the reproductive system.

• Iodine: Iodine deficiency can negatively affect the function of the thyroid gland and reduce fertility. It is recommended to take iodine additives in a dosage of 150 μg per day a few months before conception.

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important to the health of the reproductive system and can improve the quality of sperm in men. It is recommended to include fatty fish in the diet or take Omega-3 fatty supplements a few months before conception.

• Coenzim q10: An antioxidant that can improve the quality of eggs and sperm. It is recommended to take Coenzyme Q10 in a dosage of 100-200 mg per day a few months before conception.

• Vitamin E: An antioxidant that can protect cells from damage and improve fertility. It is recommended to take vitamin E in a dosage of 15 mg per day a few months before conception.

• Selenium: A trace element that is important for the health of the thyroid gland and the reproductive system. It is recommended to take selenium in a dosage of 55 μg per day a few months before conception.

In addition to taking dietary supplements, at the stage of pregnancy planning, it is important to lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right, play sports, avoid stress and abandon bad habits (smoking, alcohol, drugs).

Men are also recommended to prepare for the conception of the child. They should lead a healthy lifestyle, eat properly, play sports, avoid overheating of the testicles (for example, in a sauna or bath) and take vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of the reproductive system (zinc, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid).

Consulting with a doctor before planning pregnancy will help to identify possible health problems and take the necessary measures to eliminate them.

Section 8: Myths and errors about dietary supplements during pregnancy: Exposing popular statements

Around the dietary supplements during pregnancy, there are many myths and delusions that can mislead future mothers and lead to undesirable consequences. Consider some of them:

• Myth: Bad is natural and safe. Reality: Naturalness does not always mean safety. Many plant additives can be dangerous during pregnancy. In addition, dietary supplements do not undergo strict quality control, like drugs, so their composition and safety can cause questions.

• Myth: The more vitamins, the better. Reality: an excess of vitamins can be as harmful as their disadvantage. Hypervitaminosis can cause serious side effects and even lead to congenital malformations in the fetus.

• Myth: Bad can be taken without consulting a doctor. Reality: taking dietary supplement without consulting a doctor is unacceptable. Only a doctor can evaluate your health status, identify nutrient deficiency and choose the optimal dietary supplement scheme.

• Myth: Bad replace good nutrition. Reality: dietary supplements cannot replace full and balanced diet. Try to receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals from food. Bad should be considered only as an addition to a healthy lifestyle.

• Myth: All pregnant women should take the same vitamins. Reality: the need for vitamins and minerals is individual for every woman. There is no universal scheme for taking dietary supplements suitable for all pregnant women.

• Myth: If the dietary supplement is sold in a pharmacy, then it is safe. Reality: the presence of dietary supplements in the pharmacy does not guarantee its security. Pharmacies are not responsible for the composition and quality of dietary supplements.

• Myth: Advertising Bad is true. Reality: Advertising of dietary supplements often exaggerates their effectiveness and safety. Do not trust the advertisement and the advice of friends.

• Myth: Bad helps from stretch marks. Reality: there are no sufficient scientific data confirming the effectiveness of dietary supplements in the prevention of stretch marks. For the prevention of stretch marks, it is recommended to maintain healthy weight, moisturize the skin and wear supportive underwear.

It is important to critically treat information about dietary supplements and not believe everything that you read or hear. Consult a doctor and trust only verified sources of information.

Section 9: possible side effects and interaction of dietary supplements with drugs

Reception of dietary supplements can cause side effects, especially if the recommended dosage is exceeded or in the presence of individual intolerance. The most common side effects of dietary supplements include:

• From the gastrointestinal tract: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, bloating.

• From the skin: Skin rash, itching, urticaria, redness of the skin.

• From the nervous system: Headache, dizziness, insomnia, anxiety, irritability.

• From the cardiovascular system: Increasing blood pressure, rapid heartbeat.

In rare cases, the intake of dietary supplements can cause more serious side effects, such as allergic reactions (anaphylactic shock), impaired liver and kidney function, bleeding.

Bad can interact with drugs, enhancing or weakening their effect, or causing undesirable side effects. For example:

• Vitamin K: It can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood), such as warfarin.

• St. John’s wort: It can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants, contraceptives and some other drugs.

• Grapefruit juice: It can strengthen or weaken the effect of many drugs, including statins (drugs that reduce cholesterol), antihistamines and antidepressants.

Before taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to inform the doctor about all the drugs that you take, including prescription and over -the -counter drugs, as well as other dietary supplements. The doctor will evaluate possible interactions and select a safe treatment regimen.

When any side effects appear during dietary supplements, it is necessary to stop taking and consult a doctor.

Section 10: Alternative methods of maintaining health during pregnancy: physical activity, sleep, psychoemotional state

In addition to proper nutrition and dietary supplement, to maintain health during pregnancy, it is important to pay attention to physical activity, sleep and psycho -emotional state.

• Physical activity: Regular physical activity of moderate intensity (walking, swimming, pregnant women yoga, pilates for pregnant women) helps to improve the general state of health, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, relieve pregnancy symptoms (nausea, constipation, edema), improve sleep and prepare the body for childbirth. Before starting classes, you need to consult a doctor.

• Dream: During pregnancy, the need for a dream increases. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day. To improve sleep, it is recommended to observe the daily routine, go to bed and get up at the same time, avoid the use of caffeine and alcohol before bedtime, ventilate the bedroom and use a convenient pillow for pregnant women.

• Psycho -emotional state: During pregnancy, women often experience stress, anxiety and mood swings. It is important to learn how to cope with stress and maintain a positive psycho -emotional state. To do this, you can use various methods, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, walks in the fresh air, communication with loved ones, visiting a psychologist or psychotherapist.

• Refusal of bad habits: During pregnancy, smoking, the use of alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited. These substances can cause serious harm to the health of mother and child.

• Regular visits to the doctor: Regular visits to the doctor are necessary to monitor the state of the health of the mother and the child, to identify possible problems and timely take measures.

Remember that a healthy lifestyle is the key to a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child.