The effect of vitamins for pregnant women on the health of the child

The effect of vitamins for pregnant women on the health of the child

I. Fundamental needs and the role of vitamins in the formation of healthy offspring:

Pregnancy is a period of deep physiological transformation in a woman’s body, requiring increased consumption of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. These substances play a key role not only in maintaining the health of the mother, but also in ensuring the optimal development of the fetus, forming its organs and systems, as well as laying the basis for its future health. The lack of certain vitamins during pregnancy can lead to serious developmental disorders, congenital defects and increased risk of chronic diseases in a child in further life.

A. Key vitamins and their functions:

During pregnancy, the emphasis is on several vitamins that play a critical role in the formation of a healthy organism.

• Folic acid (vitamin B9): This vitamin occupies a central place in the prevention of defects in the nervous tube, such as Spina Bifida (spinal split) and anencephalus (lack of brain). Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, critical components of cellular growth and division, especially in the first weeks of pregnancy, when the nervous system of the fetus is formed. The recommended daily dose of folic acid for pregnant women is at least 400 μg, and for women planning a pregnancy – 400 mcg for several months before conception.
• Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the absorption of calcium necessary for the development of bones and teeth of the fetus. In addition, it affects the immune system, muscle function and the development of the nervous system. The deficiency of vitamin D during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of rickets in newborns, low birth weight, as well as the risk of developing autoimmune diseases and type 1 diabetes in the future. The recommended daily dose of vitamin D for pregnant women is 600 IU (international units), however, many women may need a higher dose, especially in the winter months or with a limited stay in the sun.
• Vitamin A: Vitamin A is necessary for the development of vision, the immune system and the bones of the fetus. However, it is important to note that the excess of vitamin A (especially in the form of retinol) can be teratogenic and lead to congenital defects. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid taking high doses of vitamin A and use it mainly from food sources, such as vegetables and fruits rich in beta-carotene (predecessor of vitamin A). The recommended daily dose of vitamin A for pregnant women is 770 mcg RAE (retinol equivalents).
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage caused by free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, an important component of connective tissue, bones and blood vessels. Vitamin C promotes the absorption of iron, which is necessary to prevent anemia in pregnant women. The recommended daily dose of vitamin C for pregnant women is 85 mg.
• B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12): B vitamins play an important role in energy metabolism, the functioning of the nervous system and the development of the brain. Vitamin B6 helps to alleviate the morning nausea and vomiting. Vitamin B12 is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and prevent neurological problems. B vitamins deficiency can lead to various developmental disorders, such as growth retardation, neurological defects and anemia. Recommended daily doses of B vitamins for pregnant women vary depending on a specific vitamin.
• Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells from damage and plays a role in the development of the immune system. The disadvantage of vitamin E during pregnancy can be associated with an increased risk of premature birth and low weight at birth. The recommended daily dose of vitamin E for pregnant women is 15 mg.
• Kholin: Although choline is technically not vitamin, it often includes in prenatal vitamins due to its important role in the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. Kholin is necessary for the synthesis of neurotransmitters that transmit signals between nerve cells. The lack of choline during pregnancy can be associated with impaired memory and learning in the child in the future. The recommended daily choline dose for pregnant women is 450 mg.

B. The mechanisms of the influence of vitamins on the development of the fetus:

Vitamins affect the development of the fetus through various mechanisms, including:

• Participation in enzymatic reactions: Many vitamins act as cofactors for enzymes that catalyze important biochemical reactions necessary for the synthesis of DNA, RNA, proteins and other molecules necessary for the growth and development of cells.
• Gene expression regulation: Some vitamins can affect the expression of genes, that is, what genes are turned on and off. This can have a deep effect on the development of various organs and systems of the fetus.
• Protection against oxidative stress: Vitamins-antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, help protect the cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can form as a result of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can damage DNA, proteins and lipids, which can lead to developmental disabilities.
• Immunomodulation: Some vitamins, such as vitamins A and D, play a role in the development and functioning of the fetal immune system. They help to form an immune response to infections and prevent the development of autoimmune diseases.

II. The effect of vitamins deficiency on the health of the child:

The deficiency of vitamins during pregnancy may have serious consequences for the health of the child, both in the short and long term.

A. Short -term consequences:

• Congenital defects: The disadvantage of folic acid, as mentioned earlier, is one of the main causes of defects in the nervous tube. Vitamin A deficiency can lead to defects in the eyes, heart and other organs.
• Low birth weight: The disadvantage of many vitamins, including vitamins D, E and B vitamins, can lead to low weight at birth, which is associated with an increased risk of developing various health problems in the future.
• Premature birth: The disadvantage of some vitamins, such as vitamin D, can increase the risk of premature birth, which can lead to serious health problems in the newborn, including breathing, feeding and development problems.
• Rakhite: Vitamin D deficiency leads to a violation of bone mineralization, which can lead to rickets characterized by soft and weak bones.
• Anemia: The deficiency of iron, vitamin B12 and folic acid can lead to anemia in a newborn, which can cause fatigue, weakness and delayed development.
• Immune system disorders: The lack of vitamins A and D can weaken the immune system of the newborn, making it more susceptible to infections.

B. Long -term consequences:

• Disorders of the development of the nervous system: The lack of folic acid, vitamin B12 and choline can affect the development of the brain and nervous system, leading to impaired cognitive functions, memory and learning.
• Increased risk of chronic diseases: The deficiency of vitamin D during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of developing type 1 diabetes, autoimmune diseases (such as asthma and allergies) and cardiovascular diseases in a child in the future.
• Metabolic syndrome: Studies show that the deficiency of some vitamins during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing metabolic syndrome in a child at a later age, which is characterized by an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and obesity.
• Mental disorders: Some studies associate the deficiency of group B vitamins during pregnancy with an increased risk of developing mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety, in the child in the future.

III. Sources of vitamins for pregnant women:

Obtaining a sufficient amount of vitamins during pregnancy is crucial for the health of the mother and child. Vitamins can be obtained from various sources, including food, prenatal vitamins and additives.

A. Food sources:

A variety and balanced diet is the basis for obtaining the necessary vitamins and minerals. Pregnant women are recommended to consume products rich in vitamins and minerals, such as:

• Folic acid: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, romen salad, broccoli), legumes (beans, lentils), citrus fruits, avocados, enriched grain products (bread, pasta, cereals).
• Vitamin D: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolk, enriched dairy products, mushrooms exposed to ultraviolet light.
• Vitamin A: Orange and yellow vegetables and fruits (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, apricots), dark green leafy vegetables, egg yolk.
• Vitamin C: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), pepper (red, green), broccoli, tomatoes.
• B vitamins B: Whole grain products, meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, seeds.
• Vitamin E: Vegetable oils (sunflower, olive, soybean), nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables.
• Kholin: Eggs, liver, meat, fish, legumes, broccoli, Brussels cabbage.

B. Prenatal vitamins:

Prenatal vitamins are polyvitamin additives specially designed to meet increased needs for vitamins and minerals during pregnancy. They contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals in doses recommended for pregnant women.

• The choice of prenatal vitamin: It is important to choose prenatal vitamin, which contains adequate doses of folic acid (at least 400 μg), vitamin D (at least 600 IU) and iron (27 mg). It is advisable to choose prenatal vitamin, which contains an active form of folic acid – methylphulatory, which is better absorbed by the body.
• The beginning of the reception of prenatal vitamins: It is recommended to start taking prenatal vitamins a few months before conception and continue to accept during the entire pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Consultation with a doctor: Before taking prenatal vitamins, you need to consult a doctor to make sure that the selected vitamin is suitable for you and does not contain ingredients that may be contraindicated to you.

C. Addresses:

In some cases, additional vitamin additives may be required, in addition to prenatal vitamins. This may be necessary if a woman has a deficiency of certain vitamins or if she has certain diseases that require increased consumption of vitamins.

• Vitamin D: Many pregnant women need an additional intake of vitamin D, especially in the winter months or with a limited stay in the sun.
• Iron: Women with anemia may require an additional iron.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA and EPA, are important for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. If a woman does not consume enough fat fish, it can be useful to take additives with omega-3 fatty acids.
• Probiotics: Probiotics can help improve digestion and support the immune system. Some studies show that taking probiotics during pregnancy can reduce the risk of allergic diseases in a child.

IV. Factors affecting the assimilation of vitamins:

Several factors can affect the absorption of vitamins during pregnancy.

A. Mother’s health status:

• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: Diseases, such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, can disrupt the absorption of vitamins and minerals.
• Chronic diseases: Chronic diseases, such as diabetes and kidney diseases, can affect vitamins metabolism.
• Taking drugs: Some drugs, such as antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can affect the absorption of vitamins.

B. Diet:

• Unstable nutrition: Insufficient consumption of products rich in vitamins and minerals can lead to a deficiency of vitamins.
• Food processing: Food processing can reduce the content of vitamins in them.
• Food interaction: Some foods may prevent the absorption of vitamins. For example, caffeine can prevent the absorption of calcium.

C. Age:

• Teenage pregnancy: Teenagers who are pregnant are at increased risk of vitamins deficiency, as their body is still growing and developing.
• Pregnancy in adulthood: Women who are pregnant in adulthood (after 35 years) may have an increased risk of developing diseases that can affect the absorption of vitamins.

D. Smoking and drinking alcohol:

• Smoking: Smoking reduces the level of vitamin C in the body and can increase the risk of developing vitamins of group B.
• Alcohol consumption: The use of alcohol can disrupt the absorption of vitamins of group B and folic acid.

V. The safety of taking vitamins during pregnancy:

Although vitamins are necessary for the health of the mother and child, it is important to take them in the correct doses. Excess of some vitamins can be harmful, especially during pregnancy.

A. The risk of an overdose of vitamins:

• Vitamin A: Excess vitamin A (especially in the form of retinol) can be teratogenic and lead to congenital defects, such as defects of the heart, face and nervous system.
• Vitamin D: Excess vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can cause problems with the kidneys and heart.
• Other vitamins: An excess of other vitamins, such as vitamin C and B vitamins, usually does not cause serious problems, but can lead to side effects, such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

B. Recommendations for the safe use of vitamins:

• Consultation with a doctor: Before taking vitamin additives, you need to consult a doctor to make sure that they are safe for you and your child.
• Compliance with recommended doses: It is important to observe the recommended doses of vitamins indicated on the packaging or recommended by the doctor.
• Avoid megadosis: Do not take megadoses of vitamins, as this can be harmful.
• The choice of quality additives: It is important to choose high -quality vitamin additives from reliable manufacturers.

VI. A personalized approach to vitamin support during pregnancy:

The needs for vitamins can vary depending on the individual characteristics of the woman. It is important to consider the state of health, diet, lifestyle and other factors when determining the optimal vitamin regime during pregnancy.

A. Factors requiring an individual approach:

• Age: Teenagers and women in adulthood may require different doses of vitamins.
• Multiple pregnancy: Women, pregnant twins or triple, may need more vitamins and minerals.
• Diseases: Women with certain diseases, such as diabetes or kidney disease, may require a special vitamin regime.
• Diet: Women who adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet may require additional intake of vitamin B12, iron and zinc.
• Smoking and drinking alcohol: Women who smoke or drink alcohol may need more vitamins C and group B.

B. The role of a doctor in the development of an individual plan:

The doctor can help develop an individual vitamin support plan during pregnancy, taking into account all the factors affecting the needs of vitamins. It can recommend certain prenatal vitamins and additives, as well as give recommendations on nutrition.

VII. Conclusion:

Vitamins play a decisive role in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and the optimal development of the child. Enough consumption of vitamins, especially folic acid, vitamin D and B vitamins, is necessary to prevent congenital defects, maintaining the growth and development of the fetus and reduce the risk of chronic diseases in the future. Women planning pregnancy are recommended to start taking prenatal vitamins a few months before conception and continue to reception during the entire pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is important to adhere to a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and consult a doctor to develop an individual vitamin support plan that takes into account all the factors affecting the needs of vitamins. A safe and reasonable technique of vitamins during pregnancy is an investment in the health of the future generation.