Bad for pregnant and nursing mothers: Complete management
Part 1: The needs of the body of a pregnant and lactating woman
Pregnancy and lactation period are unique physiological conditions that require increased attention to nutrition and general health. At this time, the woman’s body experiences a tremendous load, providing the necessary nutrients not only to maintain her own functions, but also for the full development and growth of the child. The deficiency of vital nutrients can negatively affect both the mother’s health and the baby’s health, leading to various complications and developmental disorders.
1.1. Increased nutrient needs:
During pregnancy and lactation, the needs in most vitamins and minerals increase significantly. This is due to the need to ensure the optimal level of these substances for the following processes:
- Formation of tissues and organs of the fetus: Vitamins and minerals play a key role in the formation of the nervous system, bone tissue, cardiovascular system and other fetal organs.
- The growth and development of the fetus/baby: The adequate intake of nutrients provides the normal growth and development of the child, prevents intrauterine development and other problems.
- Maintenance of mother’s health: Increased nutrient needs are necessary to maintain the health of the mother, prevent anemia, osteoporosis, preeclampsia and other complications of pregnancy and lactation.
- Breast milk production: The lactation process requires significant energy costs and increased consumption of nutrients, which are then transmitted to the child through breast milk.
1.2. Key nutrients for pregnant and nursing women:
Among the most important nutrients that pregnant and nursing women need, the following can be distinguished:
- Folic acid (vitamin B9): It is extremely important for the formation of the fruit’s nervous tube in the early stages of pregnancy. Folic acid deficiency can lead to defects in the nervous tube, such as Spina Bifida. It is recommended to start taking folic acid a few months before the planned pregnancy and continue during the first trimester.
- Iron: The need for iron increases significantly during pregnancy due to an increase in the volume of the mother’s blood and the need to provide the fetus with iron for the formation of hemoglobin. Iron deficiency can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which is associated with an increased risk of premature birth, low weight at birth and other complications.
- Calcium: It is necessary for the formation of bone tissue and teeth of the fetus, as well as to maintain the health of the bones of the mother. If the intake of calcium is not enough, the mother’s body will take calcium from bones, which can lead to osteoporosis in the future.
- Vitamin D: It is important for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, as well as for the development of the fetal immune system. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in a child and other health problems.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): They play an important role in the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. DHA is especially important for the development of the nervous system and retina of the eye. Omega-3 fatty acids can also reduce the risk of premature birth and postpartum depression.
- Iodine: It is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland of the mother and fetus. Iodine deficiency can lead to disorders of the development of the brain and nervous system of the child, as well as to hypothyroidism in the mother.
- Vitamin C: Participates in the formation of collagen, strengthens the immune system and improves the absorption of iron.
- Vitamin B12: It is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to neurological problems and anemia.
- Zinc: It is important for the immune system, wound healing and cell growth. Zinc deficiency can lead to a delay in fetal growth and other problems.
- Magnesium: Participates in the regulation of blood pressure, blood sugar and muscle function. Magnesium deficiency can lead to seizures, premature births and other complications.
- Kholin: It is important for the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. Kholin also participates in the regulation of the metabolism of fats and cholesterol.
1.3. Risks of nutrient deficiency:
The deficiency of vital nutrients during pregnancy and lactation can lead to serious consequences for both the mother and the child. Some of the most common risks include:
- Nervous tube defects (Bifida back): Associated with a deficiency of folic acid.
- Railway Anemia: It can lead to fatigue, weakness, dizziness, premature birth and low weight at birth.
- Osteoporosis: It can develop in the mother due to a deficiency of calcium and vitamin D.
- Rakhite: The child can develop due to vitamin D.’s deficiency.
- Disorders of the development of the brain and nervous system: Can be caused by a deficiency of iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, choline and other nutrients.
- Intrauterine development delay: It can be caused by a deficiency of various nutrients.
- Premature birth: Associated with a deficiency of iron, omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients.
- Low birth weight: It can be caused by a deficiency of various nutrients.
- Increased risk of postpartum depression: It can be associated with omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
Part 2: The role of dietary supplements in providing the needs of pregnant and nursing women
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) can play an important role in ensuring the adequate receipt of the necessary nutrients during pregnancy and lactation. However, it is important to understand that dietary supplements are not a replacement for full and balanced diet. They should be used as an addition to a healthy diet, and not instead of it.
2.1. When you need dietary supplements:
In some cases, getting all the necessary nutrients only from food can be difficult or impossible. In such situations, the intake of dietary supplements can be justified and even necessary. These situations include:
- Unstable nutrition: If the woman’s diet is not quite diverse and balanced, the intake of dietary supplements can help replenish the shortage of the necessary nutrients.
- Limitations in nutrition (vegetarianism, veganism): Vegetarians and vegans often experience a deficiency of vitamin B12, iron, calcium, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. Reception of dietary supplements can help replenish these deficits.
- Multiple pregnancy: Pregnant twins or triple need more nutrients than pregnant by one child. Reception of dietary supplements can help ensure the adequate receipt of the necessary nutrients.
- Diseases affecting the absorption of nutrients: Some diseases, such as celiac disease or Crohn’s disease, can violate the absorption of nutrients. In such cases, the intake of dietary supplements may be necessary to replenish deficits.
- The presence of a deficiency of nutrients detected by the results of the tests: If blood tests show a deficiency of any vitamins or minerals, the doctor may recommend taking dietary supplements to replenish the deficiency.
- Prevention of defects in the nervous tube: Folic acid is recommended for all women planning pregnancy, and during the first trimester of pregnancy to prevent defects in the nervous tube.
- Prevention of iron deficiency anemia: Iron intake can be recommended to pregnant women to prevent iron deflammation of anemia, especially in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
2.2. Types of dietary supplements for pregnant and nursing women:
There is a wide range of dietary supplements intended for pregnant and nursing women. The most common of them include:
- Polyvitamin complexes for pregnant and lactating: They contain a set of vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain the health of the mother and child. It is important to choose complexes designed specifically for pregnant and nursing women, as they contain optimal doses of the necessary nutrients.
- Folic acid: Available in the form of separate tablets or as part of multivitamin complexes. It is recommended to take folic acid at a dose of 400-800 μg a day a few months before the planned pregnancy and during the first trimester of pregnancy.
- Iron preparations: Available in various forms (tablets, capsules, syrups). It is important to choose iron preparations that are well absorbed and do not cause side effects.
- Calcium preparations: Available in various forms (tablets, capsules, chewing tablets). It is important to choose calcium preparations that are well absorbed and contain vitamin D to improve calcium absorption.
- Vitamin D: Available in various forms (drops, tablets, capsules). It is recommended to take vitamin D at a dose of 600-800 IU per day.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Available in the form of capsules with fish oil or vegetable oil (for example, linseed oil). It is important to choose drugs containing a sufficient amount of DHA and EPA.
- Iodine preparations: Available in the form of tablets or drops. It is recommended to take iodine at a dose of 150-250 μg per day.
- Probiotics: It can be useful for maintaining a healthy intestinal microflora and strengthening the immune system.
- Magnesium drugs: It can be useful to reduce the risk of seizures and premature birth.
- Kholin preparations: It can be useful for the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus.
2.3. How to choose the right dietary supplement:
When choosing dietary supplements for pregnant and lactating women, the following factors must be taken into account:
- Composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement and make sure that it contains the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal doses.
- Quality: Choose dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation and quality certificates.
- Safety: Make sure the dietary supplement is safe for pregnant and lactating women. Consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements.
- Output form: Choose a dietary supplement release form, which is most convenient for you to use (tablets, capsules, drops, syrups).
- Price: Compare prices for various dietary supplements and select the best option for the ratio of price and quality.
- Doct’s recommendations: Be sure to consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements. The doctor will be able to evaluate your individual needs and recommend the most suitable dietary supplements.
2.4. Risks associated with the reception of dietary supplements:
Despite the fact that dietary supplements can be useful for pregnant and nursing women, it is important to remember the possible risks associated with their reception:
- Overdose: Acceptance of too large doses of vitamins and minerals can be harmful to the health of the mother and child. It is important to observe the recommended doses indicated on the package of the dietary supplement.
- Interaction with drugs: Bades can interact with the drugs that a woman takes. Tell the doctor about all the dietary supplements you accept.
- Allergic reactions: Some dietary supplements can cause allergic reactions. If you have an allergy to any products or substances, carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement before the start of the reception.
- Downstable dietary supplements: On the market there are low -quality dietary supplements that may contain harmful impurities or not correspond to the declared composition. It is important to choose dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers.
- False confidence: Reception of dietary supplements should not create false confidence that you get all the necessary nutrients. It is important to continue to eat fully and balanced.
Part 3: a detailed review of the most important dietary supplements for pregnant and nursing women
3.1. Folic acid (vitamin B9):
- Role in the body: Participates in the formation of the nervous tube of the fetus, the formation of DNA and RNA, and bloodiness.
- Need: 400-800 μg a day a few months before the planned pregnancy and during the first trimester of pregnancy.
- Sources: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, salad), legumes (lentils, beans), citrus fruits, liver.
- Bad: Available in the form of separate tablets or as part of multivitamin complexes.
- Signs of deficiency: Anemia, fatigue, weakness, irritability, depression, ulcers in the mouth.
- Cautions: Taking too large doses of folic acid can mask vitamin B12 deficiency.
3.2. Iron:
- Role in the body: Participates in the transport of oxygen, the formation of hemoglobin, maintaining the immune system.
- Need: 27 mg per day during pregnancy.
- Sources: Red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dark green leafy vegetables, enriched cereals.
- Bad: Available in various forms (tablets, capsules, syrups). It is important to choose iron preparations that are well absorbed (for example, an iron hand).
- Signs of deficiency: Anemia, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, pallor of the skin, shortness of breath, heart heartbeat.
- Cautions: Iron dialing can cause constipation. It is recommended to use more fiber and drink enough water. Iron should not be taken simultaneously with calcium, since calcium can worsen the absorption of iron.
3.3. Calcium:
- Role in the body: Participates in the formation of bone tissue and teeth, the regulation of muscle function, blood coagulation, and the transfer of nerve impulses.
- Need: 1000 mg per day during pregnancy and lactation.
- Sources: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), dark green leafy vegetables (cabbage, broccoli), enriched products (for example, orange juice).
- Bad: Available in various forms (tablets, capsules, chewing tablets). It is important to choose calcium preparations that are well absorbed (for example, calcium citrate).
- Signs of deficiency: Osteoporosis, muscle cramps, tingling in the limbs.
- Cautions: Taking too large doses of calcium can lead to constipation and violation of the assimilation of iron.
3.4. Vitamin D:
- Role in the body: Participates in the assimilation of calcium and phosphorus, strengthening bone tissue, maintaining the immune system.
- Need: 600-800 IU per day during pregnancy and lactation.
- Sources: Fish oil, fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolk, enriched products (for example, milk).
- Bad: Available in various forms (drops, tablets, capsules).
- Signs of deficiency: Racititis (in children), osteomination (in adults), weakness, pain in bones and muscles, increased susceptibility to infections.
- Cautions: Taking too large doses of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood).
3.5. Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA):
- Role in the body: Participate in the development of the brain and vision of the fetus, maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system, reducing the risk of premature birth and postpartum depression.
- Need: 200-300 mg dha per day during pregnancy and lactation.
- Sources: Fat fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring), linseed oil, walnuts, chia seeds.
- Bad: Available in the form of capsules with fish oil or vegetable oil (for example, linseed oil). It is important to choose drugs containing a sufficient amount of DHA and EPA.
- Signs of deficiency: Dry skin, depression, memory problems, visual impairment.
- Cautions: Reception of large doses of omega-3 fatty acids can increase the risk of bleeding.
3.6. Iodine:
- Role in the body: Participates in the synthesis of thyroid hormones necessary for the normal development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus.
- Need: 220 μg per day during pregnancy and 290 μg per day during lactation.
- Sources: Iodized salt, seafood (sea fish, algae), dairy products.
- Bad: Available in the form of tablets or drops.
- Signs of deficiency: Hypothyroidism, goiter, disturbances in the development of the brain and nervous system (in a child).
- Cautions: Taking too large doses of iodine can lead to hyperthyroidism.
3.7. Kholin:
- Role in the body: Participates in the development of the brain and nervous system of the fetus, the regulation of the metabolism of fats and cholesterol.
- Need: 450 mg per day during pregnancy and 550 mg per day during lactation.
- Sources: Eggs, liver, red meat, poultry, legumes, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower).
- Bad: Available in the form of capsules.
- Signs of deficiency: Memory disorders, increased cholesterol, liver damage.
- Cautions: Reception of too large doses of choline can lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and a decrease in blood pressure.
Part 4: Recommendations for the use of dietary supplements for pregnant and nursing women
4.1. Consultation with a doctor:
Before you start taking any dietary supplements during pregnancy and lactation, you must definitely consult a doctor. The doctor will be able to evaluate your individual needs and risks, as well as recommend the most suitable dietary supplements and dosage. Self -medication can be dangerous for the health of the mother and the child.
4.2. The choice of high -quality dietary supplements:
When choosing dietary supplements, you need to pay attention to the quality of products. Choose dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation and quality certificates. Make sure that dietary supplements do not contain harmful impurities and correspond to the declared composition.
4.3. Compliance with recommended dosages:
It is important to strictly observe the recommended dosages indicated on the pack of dietary supplements. Acceptance of too large doses of vitamins and minerals can be harmful to the health of the mother and child. If you have any doubts about the dosage, consult your doctor.
4.4. A combination of dietary supplements with proper power:
Bades should be used as an addition to a healthy and balanced diet, and not instead of it. Try to use a variety of products rich in vitamins, minerals and other useful substances.
4.5. Accounting for possible interactions with drugs:
Bades can interact with the drugs that you take. Tell the doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept so that he can evaluate possible risks and adjust the treatment if necessary.
4.6. Health monitoring:
During the use of dietary supplements, it is important to monitor your health state and inform the doctor about any side effects or unusual symptoms.
4.7. Continuation of dietary supplements if necessary:
If you have any health problems associated with taking dietary supplements, immediately stop taking them and consult a doctor.
Part 5: Myths and misconceptions about dietary supplements for pregnant women and nursing women
Around the dietary supplements for pregnant and lactating women there are many myths and errors. It is important to distinguish the truth from fiction in order to make reasonable decisions about your health and health of your child.
5.1. Myth: Bades are medicines.
Reality: Bades are not medicines. They belong to the category of food additives and are not intended for the treatment of any diseases. Bades can be used to replenish the deficiency of nutrients and maintain health, but do not replace full treatment.
5.2. Myth: All dietary supplements are useful for pregnant and lactating women.
Reality: Not all dietary supplements are useful for pregnant and nursing women. Some dietary supplements may contain harmful substances or be ineffective. It is important to carefully choose dietary supplements and consult a doctor before starting.
5.3. Myth: The more dietary supplements are, the better.
Reality: Acceptance of too much dietary supplements can be harmful to the health of the mother and child. It is important to observe the recommended dosages and not abuse dietary supplements.
5.4. Myth: If you eat right, then dietary supplements are not needed.
Reality: Even with proper nutrition, it is not always possible to get all the necessary nutrients during pregnancy and lactation. In some cases, the intake of dietary supplements can be justified and even necessary to make up for a shortage of nutrients.
5.5. Myth: Bades are absolutely safe.
Reality: Bades are not always absolutely safe. They can cause side effects and interact with drugs. It is important to inform the doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept so that he can evaluate possible risks.
5.6. Myth: dietary supplements can replace good nutrition.
Reality: Bades cannot replace good nutrition. They should be used as an addition to a healthy and balanced diet.
5.7. Myth: All dietary supplements have the same quality.
Reality: The quality of dietary supplements can vary significantly. It is important to choose dietary supplements from well -known and trusted manufacturers who have a good reputation and quality certificates.
5.8. Myth: Bades are a waste of money.
Reality: In some cases, the intake of dietary supplements may be necessary to replenish the deficiency of nutrients and maintain the health of the mother and child. However, it is important to choose dietary supplements consciously and not spend money on ineffective or harmful products.
5.9. Myth: You can not take any dietary supplements except folic acid to pregnant and lactating women.
Reality: This is not true. Many dietary supplements, such as preparations of iron, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and iodine, can be useful and even necessary for pregnant and lactating women, if there are appropriate readings and recommendations of the doctor. The main thing is not to self -medicate and consult with a specialist.
5.10. Myth: If a pregnant woman accepts dietary supplements, then the child will be born large and healthy.
Reality: Reception of dietary supplements can help ensure adequate intake of nutrients necessary for the normal development of the fetus. However, the size and health of the child depend on many factors, including genetics, mother’s lifestyle and pregnancy conditions. Bades are not a guarantee of the birth of a large and healthy child, but they can contribute to this process.
Part 6: Conclusion
Pregnancy and lactation period are responsible stages in women’s life, requiring increased attention to her health and nutrition. The adequate receipt of the necessary nutrients plays a key role in ensuring the health of the mother and the full development of the child. Bades can be a useful addition to a healthy diet, but it is important to choose them consciously, consult a doctor and observe the recommended dosages. Remember that dietary supplements are not a replacement for good nutrition, but only help to replenish the deficiency of the necessary nutrients. A healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and regular consultations with a doctor is the key to the health of the future mother and her baby.