Vitamins for pregnant women with multiple pregnancy

Vitamins for pregnant women with multiple pregnancy: a guide for optimal nutrition and health of mothers and babies

Pregnancy is an amazing time that requires special attention to nutrition and taking vitamins. When it comes to multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.), the need for nutrients increases exponentially. This is due to the fact that the mother’s body should support not only her own health, but also ensure the growth and development of several babies at the same time. The lack of necessary vitamins and minerals can lead to serious complications for both mother and children, including premature birth, low birth weight, preeclampsia and other problems.

This guide is intended for future mothers awaiting twins, triplets or more, and contains detailed information about vitamins and minerals necessary for a healthy multiple pregnancy. We will consider the specific needs for nutrients, recommended dosages, sources of these substances and potential risks associated with their deficiency. Also, the issues of nutrition planning, the choice of the right additives and the importance of consultations with the doctor will be raised.

Why does multiple pregnancy require a special approach to vitamins?

Multiple pregnancy creates unique physiological requirements. The mother’s body faces an increased load on all systems, including cardiovascular, digestive and excretory. In addition, the need for nutrients increases due to the need to ensure the growth and development of several fruits.

The main differences between multiple pregnancy affecting the need for vitamins:

• Increased blood volume: The volume of blood in pregnant women with double or triple is much higher than with a single pregnancy, which requires more iron for the production of hemoglobin.
• Increased metabolism: Metabolic processes in the mother’s body are accelerated to provide themselves with energy and babies, which increases the need for vitamins of group B.
• The risk of nutrient deficiency: Pregnant women with multiple pregnancy are more at risk of nutrient deficiency, since the body’s resources are distributed between several fruits.
• Increased risk of complications: The lack of vitamins and minerals can increase the risk of complications, such as preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, premature birth and low birth weight.

Therefore, in order to ensure the health of the mother and babies, it is necessary to pay special attention to proper nutrition and intake of vitamins.

Key vitamins and minerals for pregnant women with multiple pregnancy:

1. Folic acid (vitamin B9):

   • Role: Folic acid plays a decisive role in the development of the nerve tube of the fetus, which is formed in the first weeks of pregnancy. Folic acid deficiency can lead to serious defects in the nervous tube, such as the crevice of the spine (spina bifida) and anencephaly. It is also necessary for the formation of red blood cells and cell growth.
   • Recommended dosage: With multiple pregnancy, it is recommended to take at least 1 mg (1000 μg) of folic acid per day, starting at least a month before conception and continuing during the first trimester. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a higher dosage.
   • Sources: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, Romen salad), legumes (lentils, beans, peas), avocados, citrus fruits and enriched products (bread, cereals).
   • Important: Even with a balanced diet, it is difficult to get a sufficient amount of folic acid only from food, so the intake of additives is mandatory.

2. Iron:

   • Role: Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, protein in red blood cells, which transfers oxygen throughout the body. During pregnancy, the need for iron increases significantly, since it is necessary to provide oxygen not only of the mother’s body, but also to growing fruits. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, weakness, premature birth and low weight at birth. With multiple pregnancy, the risk of anemia is much higher.
   • Recommended dosage: With multiple pregnancy, it is recommended to take 60-100 mg of iron per day. The doctor may prescribe a higher dosage if you already have anemia.
   • Sources: Red meat (beef, lamb), poultry (chicken, turkey), fish, legumes (lentils, beans), dark green leafy vegetables (spinach), dried fruits (dried apricots, raisins) and enriched products (cereals).
   • Important: Iron is better absorbed in combination with vitamin C. Therefore, it is recommended to take iron additives with orange juice or other products, rich vitamin C. should avoid simultaneous instrumentation with calcium, since calcium can reduce iron absorption.

3. Calcium:

   • Role: Calcium is necessary for the development of bones and teeth of the fetus. During pregnancy, the mother’s body redistributes calcium in favor of the fetus, so it is important to ensure sufficient intake of calcium with food or additives. Calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis in the mother and problems with the development of bones and teeth in a child. Calcium also plays an important role in the functioning of muscles and the nervous system.
   • Recommended dosage: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 1000-1300 mg of calcium per day.
   • Sources: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), dark green leafy vegetables (broccoli, cabbage), fish with bones (sardins, salmon), enriched products (soy milk, orange juice) and tofu.
   • Important: Calcium is better absorbed in small portions during the day. If you take calcium supplements, divide them into several techniques. Vitamin D helps to absorb calcium, so it is important to ensure sufficient intake of vitamin D.

4. Vitamin D:

   • Role: Vitamin D plays an important role in the assimilation of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the development of the bones and teeth of the fetus. It is also important for the immune system and the functioning of muscles. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in a child and osteoporosis in the mother. Studies show that vitamin D deficiency can be associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
   • Recommended dosage: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 600-800 IU (international units) of vitamin D per day. In some cases, the doctor may recommend a higher dosage, especially if you have a deficiency of vitamin D.
   • Sources: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolks, enriched products (milk, cereals) and sunlight.
   • Important: Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. However, in winter and in regions with low solar activity, taking vitamin D additives is mandatory.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA):

   • Role: Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (non-achexaenoic acid), play an important role in the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. They also help reduce the risk of premature birth and postpartum depression. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) is important for the health of the cardiovascular system.
   • Recommended dosage: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take at least 200-300 mg DHA per day. With multiple pregnancy, this dosage can be increased on the recommendation of a doctor.
   • Sources: Fat fish (salmon, sardines, tuna), linen seed, chia seeds, walnuts and fish oil supplements.
   • Important: Choose fish oil supplements that have passed cleaning from mercury and other pollutants. If you do not eat fish, pay attention to algae -based additives that are a vegetarian source of DHA.

6. Vitamin C:

   • Role: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, important for the health of the skin, bones and connective tissue. Vitamin C promotes the absorption of iron and strengthens the immune system.
   • Recommended dosage: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 85 mg of vitamin C per day.
   • Sources: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), pepper, broccoli, tomatoes and kiwi.

7. B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12):

   • Role: B vitamins play an important role in energy exchange, functioning of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells. They are necessary for the growth and development of the fetus, as well as to maintain the health of the mother. Vitamin B6 helps to cope with morning nausea. Vitamin B12 is important for the normal functioning of the nervous system and the formation of DNA.
   • Recommended dosage: Recommended dosages of group B vitamins depend on specific vitamin and individual needs. It is usually enough to take a multivitamin complex for pregnant women, containing all the necessary vitamins of group B.
   • Sources: Whole grain products, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.

8. Zinc:

   • Role: Zinc is necessary for the growth and development of cells, immune function and wound healing. Zinc deficiency can lead to a delayed fetal growth, premature birth and problems with the immune system.
   • Recommended dosage: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 11 mg of zinc per day.
   • Sources: Red meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains.

9. Magnesium:

   • Role: Magnesium plays an important role in the functioning of muscles and nervous system, regulating blood sugar and maintaining normal blood pressure. Magnesium deficiency can lead to seizures, premature birth and preeclampsia.
   • Recommended dosage: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 350-400 mg of magnesium per day.
   • Sources: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, manhold), nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grain products.

Power planning for multiple pregnancy:

In addition to taking vitamins and minerals, it is important to pay special attention to your nutrition. Power planning will help you get all the necessary nutrients and maintain healthy weight.

The main recommendations for nutrition for multiple pregnancy:

• Increase the calorie content of the diet: Pregnant people with twins or triple requires more calories than with a single pregnancy. It is recommended to increase the calorie content of the diet by 300-500 calories per day for each fetus.
• Eat a variety of food: Include various foods from all food groups in your diet to get all the necessary nutrients.
• Increase protein consumption: Protein is necessary for the growth and development of the fetus. It is recommended to consume at least 70-100 grams of protein per day.
• Use enough complex carbohydrates: Complex carbohydrates are provided with energy and fiber. Choose whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
• Limit the consumption of simple sugars and processed products: These products contain few nutrients and can lead to a set of excess weight.
• Drink enough water: Water is necessary to maintain a normal volume of blood and prevent constipation. It is recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
• Eat in small portions, but often: This will help to cope with the morning nausea and heartburn.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking: Alcohol and smoking can harm the fetus.

The choice of correct vitamin additives:

When choosing vitamin additives for pregnant women, it is important to pay attention to several factors:

• Composition: Make sure that the supplement contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals in the recommended dosages.
• Quality: Choose additives from reliable manufacturers that have undergone quality control.
• Form: Some vitamins and minerals are better absorbed in certain forms. For example, iron in the form of bislycinate is better absorbed and less often causes side effects than iron in the form of sulfate.
• Individual needs: Consult a doctor to choose an additive corresponding to your individual needs.

Potential risks associated with deficiency of vitamins and minerals:

The deficiency of vitamins and minerals during multiple pregnancy can lead to serious complications for both the mother and children.

Possible complications:

• Premature birth: The deficiency of folic acid, iron and vitamin D can increase the risk of premature birth.
• Low birth weight: The disadvantage of nutrients can lead to delayed fetal growth and low weight at birth.
• Precomports: The deficiency of calcium and vitamin D can increase the risk of preeclampsia, a dangerous state characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine.
• Gestational diabetes: The disadvantage of vitamin D can be associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, diabetes developing during pregnancy.
• Anemia: Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue and weakness.
• Nervous tube defects: Folic acid deficiency can lead to defects in the nervous tube, such as the crevice of the spine (spina bifida) and anencephaly.
• Problems with the development of bones and teeth: The deficiency of calcium and vitamin D can lead to problems with the development of bones and teeth in a child.
• Postpartum depression: The omega-3 deficiency can increase the risk of postpartum depression.

The importance of consultations with a doctor:

Consultation with a doctor is a prerequisite for providing a healthy multiple pregnancy. The doctor will be able to evaluate your individual needs for nutrients, recommend suitable vitamin additives and control your health status and the development of babies.

Regular consultations with a doctor will help:

• Evaluate your individual risks and needs.
• Develop an individual nutrition plan and intake of vitamins.
• Control your state of health and development of babies.
• Timely identify and treat any complications.

Additional tips for a healthy multiple pregnancy:

• Rest enough: Pregnancy by twins or triple creates an additional load on the body, so it is important to relax enough.
• Avoid stress: Stress can negatively affect pregnancy. Try to avoid stressful situations and find time for relaxation.
• Engage in easy physical activity: Moderate physical activity can help improve your well -being and prepare the body for childbirth. Consult a doctor to find out which types of physical activity are safe for you.
• Maintain contact with other mothers of twins and triplets: Communication with other mothers who experience the same thing can be very useful and support you emotionally.

A multiple pregnancy is a special time requiring special attention to health and nutrition. Following the recommendations presented in this guide and consulting with a doctor, you can secure a healthy future for yourself and your kids.