Vitamins for pregnant women: the effect on the development of the fetus

Vitamins for pregnant women: the effect on the development of the fetus

Pregnancy is a unique period in a woman’s life, characterized by significant physiological changes aimed at ensuring the optimal growth and development of the fetus. The adequate intake of the necessary nutrients, including vitamins, plays a critical role in this process. The deficiency of certain vitamins can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the child, affecting various aspects of health, from the formation of the nervous tube to the development of the immune system. In this article, we will examine in detail the influence of key vitamins on the development of the fetus, their role in various trimesters of pregnancy, the consequences of the deficit and recommendations on their adequate consumption.

Vitamin D: Bone basis and immunity

Vitamin D, also known as “solar vitamin”, plays an important role in the regulation of the metabolism of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the formation of bone tissue of the fetus. It also affects the development of the immune system and the nervous system. The deficiency of vitamin D during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of rickets in the newborn, as well as with an increase in the risk of premature birth, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes in the mother.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Bone tissue formation: Vitamin D provides the absorption of calcium from the intestines, which is necessary to build strong bones and teeth in the fetus. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a violation of bone mineralization and the development of rickets after birth.
  • The development of the immune system: Vitamin D plays a role in the regulation of immune processes and can affect the development of the fetal immune system, reducing the risk of developing autoimmune diseases in the future.
  • The development of the nervous system: Studies show that vitamin D can play a role in the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with an increased risk of developing neurological disorders.
  • Regulation of cellular growth and differentiation: Vitamin D is involved in the processes of cellular growth and differentiation, which is important for the normal development of all organs and fetal systems.

• The risks of vitamin D deficiency:

  • Rachite in a newborn: Rachite is characterized by a violation of bone mineralization, which leads to bone deformation, growth retardation and increased susceptibility to fractures.
  • Premature birth: Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of premature birth, which can lead to various complications for the newborn.
  • Precomports: Preeclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy, characterized by increased blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. Vitamin D deficiency can increase the risk of preeclampsia.
  • Gestational diabetes: Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. Vitamin D deficiency can worsen sensitivity to insulin and increase the risk of gestational diabetes.
  • Low birth weight: The disadvantage of vitamin D can lead to a slowdown in the fetal growth and, as a result, to low weight at birth.

• Recommendations on the consumption of vitamin D:

  • Blood test: It is recommended to take a blood test for vitamin D (25-OH vitamin D) at the beginning of pregnancy to evaluate its level.
  • Vitamin D supplements: Most pregnant women are recommended to take vitamin D additives. The optimal dose depends on the initial level of vitamin D and individual needs. It is usually recommended 600-800 IU per day, but a higher dose on the recommendation of a doctor may be required.
  • Nutrition: Vitamin D is contained in a small number of products such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna), egg yolks and enriched products (milk, juices, cereals).
  • Sunlight: The skin is able to synthesize vitamin D under the influence of sunlight. However, in temperate latitudes and in the winter season, this is often not enough.

Folic acid (vitamin B9): Prevention of defects in the nervous tube

Folic acid, or vitamin B9, is one of the most important vitamins for pregnant women, especially in the first trimester. It plays a key role in the formation of the fetal nervous tube, which subsequently develops in the brain and spinal cord. The deficiency of folic acid during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of developing defects of the nervous tube (DNT), such as spinal hernias (Spina Bifida) and anencephaly.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Formation of the nervous tube: Folic acid is necessary for the division and growth of cells, which is critical for the correct closure of the nervous tube in the first weeks of pregnancy. The disadvantage of folic acid can lead to non -covering the nervous tube and the development of DNT.
  • Synthesis DNA and RNA: Folic acid is involved in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, the genetic material necessary for all cells of the body. This is especially important for rapidly dividing cells, such as fetal cells.
  • Brain development: Folic acid plays a role in the development of the brain and the cognitive functions of the fetus.
  • Prevention of anemia: Folic acid is necessary for the production of red blood cells, which helps to prevent anemia in the mother and fetus.

• Risks of folic acid deficiency:

  • Nervous tube defects (DNT): DNT is serious innate defects that can lead to disability and even death. The spinal hernias (spina bifida) is characterized by non -covering the spine, which can lead to paralysis of the lower extremities, problems with the intestines and bladder. Anencephaly is the absence of most of the brain and skull, leading to the death of the newborn.
  • Premature birth: Folic acid deficiency can increase the risk of premature birth.
  • Low birth weight: The lack of folic acid can lead to a slowdown in the fetal growth and, as a result, to low weight at birth.
  • Anemia at the mother: Folic acid deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia in the mother, which can lead to weakness, fatigue and dizziness.

• Recommendations for folic acid consumption:

  • Reception of additives before conception: It is recommended to start taking folic acid supplements at least 1-3 months before the planned pregnancy.
  • Reception of additives during pregnancy: It is recommended to take folic acid supplements throughout pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
  • Dosage: The recommended dose of folic acid for pregnant women is 400-800 mcg per day. Women with a high risk of DNT (for example, having a history of children with DNT) may require a higher dose.
  • Nutrition: Folic acid is contained in green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, salad label), legumes (beans, peas, lentils), citrus fruits and enriched products (bread, cereals).

Vitamin A: It is important for vision, immunity and development of organs

Vitamin A plays an important role in the development of vision, immune system and fetal organs. It is necessary for differentiation of cells, which is important for the formation of various tissues and organs. However, it is important to be careful with the dosage of vitamin A, since its excess can be teratogenic and lead to congenital defects.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Visual development: Vitamin A is necessary for the development of retina and normal vision.
  • The development of the immune system: Vitamin A plays a role in the development of the fetal immune system, helping to protect it from infections.
  • Organs development: Vitamin A is necessary for the differentiation of cells and the formation of various organs and tissues, such as the heart, lungs, kidneys and limbs.
  • Growth and development of bones: Vitamin A contributes to the normal growth and development of bones.

• Risks of vitamin A deficiency:

  • Fruit growth delay: Vitamin A deficiency can lead to a slowdown in the fetal growth.
  • Vision problems: Vitamin A deficiency can lead to vision problems in the fetus, such as nictalopia (chicken blindness).
  • Increased susceptibility to infections: Vitamin A deficiency can weaken the immune system of the fetus and increase its susceptibility to infections.

• The risks of excess vitamin A:

  • Congenital defects: Excess vitamin A, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy, can be teratogenic and lead to congenital defects, such as defects of the heart, nervous system and face.

• Recommendations for vitamin A consumption:

  • Beta-carotene: It is safer to receive vitamin A from beta-carotene, which is the predecessor of vitamin A and is found in orange and green vegetables and fruits (carrots, pumpkin, battles, spinach). The body transforms beta-carotene into vitamin A depending on needs.
  • Moderate consumption of vitamin A: It is recommended not to exceed the recommended daily dose of vitamin A, which is 770 μg RAE (retinol equivalent) for pregnant women.
  • Avoid large doses of vitamin A additives: Avoid taking large doses of vitamin A, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy.
  • Limit the use of the liver: The liver contains a lot of vitamin A, therefore its consumption should be limited during pregnancy.

Vitamin C: Antioxidant and assistant in the assimilation of iron

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. It also plays an important role in the assimilation of iron, strengthening the immune system and the formation of collagen necessary for the health of the skin, bones and blood vessels.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin C protects the fetal cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can form during metabolism.
  • Iron assimilation: Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from food, which is important to prevent anemia in the mother and fetus. Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which tolerates oxygen in the blood.
  • Collagen formation: Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, protein, which is the main component of connective tissue, including skin, bones, cartilage and blood vessels.
  • The development of the immune system: Vitamin C plays a role in the development of the fetal immune system, helping to protect it from infections.

• The risks of vitamin C deficiency:

  • Premature birth: Vitamin C deficiency can increase the risk of premature birth.
  • Low birth weight: The disadvantage of vitamin C can lead to a slowdown in the fetal growth and, as a result, to low weight at birth.
  • Increased susceptibility to infections: Vitamin C deficiency can weaken the immune system of the fetus and increase its susceptibility to infections.
  • Scurvy in a newborn (rarely): In rare cases, the deficiency of vitamin C in the mother can lead to the development of scurvy in a newborn, which is characterized by bleeding gums, joint pain and slow healing of wounds.

• Recommendations on the consumption of vitamin C:

  • Nutrition: Vitamin C is contained in a large number of fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons), kiwi, strawberries, pepper, broccoli and tomatoes.
  • Vitamin C additives (if necessary): In most cases, it is enough to receive vitamin C from food. However, if there is a suspicion of deficiency, the doctor may recommend the additives of vitamin C.
  • Dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin C for pregnant women is 85 mg.
  • Safety: Vitamin C is usually safe in recommended doses. Large doses can cause stomach disorder and diarrhea.

B vitamins B: complex influence on development

B vitamins play an important role in various aspects of the development of the fetus, including energy exchange, development of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells. Each B vitamin performs its unique function.

• Vitamin B1 (TIAMIN): It is necessary for energy exchange and development of the nervous system. Deficiency can lead to a violation of the development of the brain and nervous system.

• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Participates in the energy exchange and development of vision. Deficiency can increase the risk of congenital defects.

• Vitamin B3 (Niacin): It is necessary for energy exchange and development of the nervous system. Deficiency can lead to impaired development of the nervous system.

• Vitamin B5 (pantotenic acid): Participates in the energy exchange and synthesis of hormones. The deficiency is rare.

• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): It is important for the development of the brain and nervous system, as well as for the formation of red blood cells. Deficiency can lead to a violation of the development of the nervous system and anemia. Sometimes used to facilitate morning nausea during pregnancy.

• Vitamin B7 (Biotin): It is necessary for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. The deficiency is rare.

• Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary for the development of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells. Deficiency can lead to a violation of the development of the nervous system and anemia. It is especially important for vegetarian and vegan.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Energy exchange: B vitamins are involved in energy exchange, providing the fruit with the necessary energy for growth and development.
  • The development of the nervous system: B vitamins are necessary for the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus.
  • The formation of red blood cells: B vitamins are involved in the formation of red blood cells, which transfer oxygen to fetal tissues.

• Risks of deficiency of B vitamins B:

  • Violation of the development of the nervous system: The deficiency of group B vitamins can lead to a violation of the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus, which can affect cognitive functions and behavior.
  • Anemia: The deficiency of group B vitamins, especially B12 and folic acid, can lead to anemia in the mother and fetus, which can lead to fatigue, weakness and dizziness.
  • Congenital defects: The deficiency of some B vitamins, such as riboflavin, can increase the risk of congenital defects.

• Recommendations for the consumption of B vitamins B:

  • Nutrition: B vitamins are found in various products, such as whole cereals, meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy products, legumes and green leafy vegetables.
  • B vitamins additives (if necessary): In some cases, it may be necessary to receive additives of group B vitamins, especially for women with a vegetarian or vegan diet, as well as for women with a risk of deficiency.
  • Prenatal vitamins: Most prenatal vitamins contain B vitamins B.

Vitamin E: antioxidant and cell protection

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals. He also plays a role in the development of the immune system and the formation of red blood cells.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Antioxidant Protection: Vitamin E protects the fetal cells from damage caused by free radicals.
  • The development of the immune system: Vitamin E plays a role in the development of the fetal immune system, helping to protect it from infections.
  • Formation of red blood cells: Vitamin E is involved in the formation of red blood cells.

• Risks of vitamin e deficiency:

  • Premature birth: Vitamin E deficiency can increase the risk of premature birth.
  • Low birth weight: The disadvantage of vitamin E can lead to a slowdown in the fetal growth and, as a result, to low weight at birth.
  • Increased susceptibility to infections: Vitamin E deficiency can weaken the immune system of the fetus and increase its susceptibility to infections.

• Recommendations for the consumption of vitamin E:

  • Nutrition: Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils (sunflower, olive, soy), nuts (almonds, hazelnuts), seeds (sunflower), avocados and green leafy vegetables.
  • Vitamin E additives (if necessary): In most cases, it is enough to receive vitamin E from food. However, if there is a suspicion of deficiency, the doctor may recommend the additives of vitamin E.
  • Dosage: The recommended daily dose of vitamin E for pregnant women is 15 mg.

Choline: important for the development of the brain and nervous system

Kholin is a nutrient that plays an important role in the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. It is necessary for the formation of cell membranes, the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the transmission of nerve impulses.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Brain development: Kholin is necessary for the development of the brain, especially the hippocampus, the area responsible for memory and training.
  • The development of the nervous system: Kholin plays a role in the development of the nervous system of the fetus, ensuring the normal transmission of nerve impulses.
  • Prevention of defects in the nervous tube: Kholin can help reduce the risk of developing defects in the nervous tube, especially in combination with folic acid.

• Risks of choline deficiency:

  • Brain developmental disorder: Choline deficiency can lead to impaired brain development, which can affect cognitive functions and memory.
  • Increased risk of defects in the nervous tube: Choline deficiency can increase the risk of developing defects in the nervous tube.

• Kholin consumption recommendations:

  • Nutrition: Kholin is found in the liver, eggs, meat, fish, poultry, legumes and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower).
  • Kholin additives (if necessary): In some cases, it may be necessary to take choline additives, especially for women with a vegetarian or vegan diet, as well as for women with a risk of deficiency.
  • Dosage: The recommended daily choline dose for pregnant women is 450 mg.

Omega-3 fatty acids: brain and vision development

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DGK (non-achexaenoic acid) and EPK (eicopascentaenoic acid), play an important role in the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. DGK is the main structural component of the brain and retina of the eye.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Brain development: DGC is necessary for the development of the brain, especially the cerebral cortex, the area responsible for cognitive functions, memory and training.
  • Visual development: DGC is necessary for the development of retina and normal vision.
  • The development of the nervous system: Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the development of the nervous system of the fetus.
  • Reduction of the risk of premature birth: Some studies show that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk of premature birth.

• Risks of omega-3 fatty acid deficiency:

  • Brain developmental disorder: Omega-3 deficiency can lead to a violation of the development of the brain, which can affect cognitive functions and memory.
  • Vision problems: The omega-3 deficiency can lead to vision problems.
  • Increased risk of premature birth: The omega-3 deficiency can increase the risk of premature birth.

• Recommendations for the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids:

  • Nutrition: Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna), linen seeds, chia seeds and walnuts.
  • Omega-3 supplements (fish oil or algae oil): In most cases, it is recommended to take Omega-3 fatty acids, especially if a woman does not consume enough fat fish.
  • Dosage: The recommended daily dose of DHC for pregnant women is 200-300 mg.

Iron: prevention of anemia and oxygen providing

Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, protein in red blood cells, which transfers oxygen to tissues of the body. During pregnancy, the need for iron increases significantly, since it is necessary to provide oxygen with both the mother and the fetus. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, dizziness, as well as an increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Oxygen transfer: Iron is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen to the tissues of the fetus.
  • Brain development: Iron plays a role in the development of the brain of the fetus.
  • Growth and development: Iron is necessary for the normal growth and development of the fetus.

• Risk of iron deficiency:

  • Anemia at the mother: Iron deficiency can lead to anemia in the mother, which can lead to fatigue, weakness and dizziness.
  • Premature birth: Anemia in the mother can increase the risk of premature birth.
  • Low birth weight: Anemia in the mother can lead to a slowdown in the fetal growth and, as a result, to low birth weight.
  • Disruption of the development of the brain: Iron deficiency can lead to impaired development of the brain.

• Iron consumption recommendations:

  • Nutrition: Iron is found in red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, green leafy vegetables and enriched products.
  • Iron additives (if necessary): In most cases, it is recommended to take iron additives during pregnancy.
  • Dosage: The recommended daily dose of iron for pregnant women is 27 mg.
  • Improving the assimilation of iron: Vitamin C improves the absorption of iron from food.

Iodine: necessary for the work of the thyroid gland and brain development

Iodine is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which play an important role in the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. During pregnancy, iodine deficiency can lead to serious consequences, such as mental retardation, cretinism and hypothyroidism in a newborn.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Brain development: Iodine is necessary for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which play a key role in the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus.
  • The development of the nervous system: Iodine is necessary for the normal development of the nervous system of the fetus.
  • Growth and development: Iodine is necessary for the normal growth and development of the fetus.

• The risks of iodine deficiency:

  • Mental development delay: Iodine deficiency can lead to a delay in the mental development of the fetus.
  • Crifism: Cretinism is a serious state caused by iodine deficiency, which is characterized by a delay in mental and physical development, as well as deafness and other congenital defects.
  • Hypothyroidism in a newborn: Iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism in a newborn, which is characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones.

• Recommendations on iodine consumption:

  • Iodized salt: Use iodized food for cooking.
  • Seafood: Use seafood, such as fish, sea cabbage and other algae.
  • Iodine additives (if necessary): In some cases, it may be necessary to take iodine additives during pregnancy.
  • Dosage: The recommended daily dose of iodine for pregnant women is 220 μg.

Calcium: Bone and teeth formation

Calcium is necessary for the formation of the bones and teeth of the fetus. During pregnancy, the need for calcium increases, since the fetus receives calcium from the mother. Calcium deficiency can lead to a violation of the formation of bones and teeth of the fetus, as well as to increased risk of osteoporosis in the mother in the future.

• The role in the development of the fetus:

  • Formation of bones and teeth: Calcium is the main component of bones and teeth.
  • The development of the nervous system: Calcium plays a role in the development of the nervous system of the fetus.
  • Muscle contraction: Calcium is necessary for muscle contraction.

• Risks of calcium deficiency:

  • Violation of the formation of bones and teeth: Calcium deficiency can lead to a violation of the formation of bones and teeth of the fetus.
  • Increased risk of osteoporosis in the mother: During pregnancy, the fetus takes calcium from the mother’s body. If the consumption of calcium is not enough, this can lead to increased risk of osteoporosis in the mother in the future.

• Calcium consumption recommendations:

  • Dairy products: Use dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese.
  • Green sheet vegetables: Use green leafy vegetables, such as broccoli and spinach.
  • Enriched products: Use calcium products, such as soy milk and juice.
  • Calcium additives (if necessary): In some cases, calcium additives may be taken during pregnancy.
  • Dosage: The recommended daily dose of calcium for pregnant women is 1000 mg.

Conclusion on vitamins and minerals for pregnant women:

Adequate consumption of vitamins and minerals plays a crucial role in a healthy pregnancy and the normal development of the fetus. It is important to discuss your individual needs with a doctor and, if necessary, take prenatal vitamins and additives. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole cereals and low -fat protein sources, is also the key to ensuring sufficient receipt of all necessary nutrients. Remember that the health of the mother and fetus are interconnected, and taking care of her diet during pregnancy is an investment in a healthy future of a child.