Vitamins for pregnant women: why are they needed

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Vitamins for pregnant women: why are they needed

Pregnancy is a unique period in a woman’s life, accompanied by significant physiological changes. The growing fruit needs nutrients for normal development, and the needs of the mother’s body also increase. Ensuring the adequate receipt of vitamins and minerals is crucial for the health of both the mother and the child. In this article, we will examine in detail the role of various vitamins and minerals during pregnancy, potential risks of deficiency, recommendations for receiving and important aspects of choosing the correct complex.

The role of vitamins and minerals during pregnancy

Vitamins and minerals are involved in many processes necessary for a healthy pregnancy. They support the development of the fetus, the functioning of the mother’s body, and the prevention of complications. We will analyze the main trace elements and their functions:

• Folic acid (vitamin B9): Folic acid plays a key role in preventing defects in the nervous tube in the fetus, such as the back of bifid and anencephalus. It is also necessary for the formation of DNA and RNA, division of cells and tissue growth. The deficiency of folic acid in the early stages of pregnancy can lead to serious malformations.

  • The mechanism of action: Folic acid is a cofactor of enzymes involved in the metabolism of single -iron fragments necessary for the synthesis of nucleotides and amino acids. It also affects homocysteine, the abnormally high levels of which are associated with the increased risk of preeclampsia and other complications of pregnancy.

  • Recommended dose: Women planning pregnancy are recommended to take 400 μg of folic acid per day. During pregnancy, this dose increases to 600 mcg. Women with a high risk of defects in the nervous tube (for example, having a history of pregnancy with such a defect) may require a higher dose, up to 4 mg per day, under the supervision of a doctor.

  • Sources: Folic acid is found in dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli), legumes (lentils, beans), citrus fruits and enriched products (cereals, bread). However, even with a balanced diet, obtaining a sufficient amount of folic acid only from food can be difficult, so it is recommended to take vitamin complexes.

• Iron: During pregnancy, the need for iron increases significantly, since it is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which tolerates oxygen to the mother and fetus. Iron deficiency can lead to iron deficiency anemia, which is manifested by fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath and an increased risk of premature birth and low weight at birth.

  • The mechanism of action: Iron is a component of hemoglobin and myoglobin, proteins that carry oxygen. It also participates in the work of many enzymes necessary for metabolism and immune function.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 27 mg of iron per day. Women with iron deficiency anemia may require a higher dose prescribed by a doctor.

  • Sources: Iron is found in red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, dark green leafy vegetables and enriched products. For better assimilation of iron, it is recommended to use foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, pepper). The simultaneous intake of iron with products containing calcium (dairy products) should be avoided, since calcium can reduce iron absorption.

• Calcium: Calcium is necessary for the formation of the bones and teeth of the fetus, as well as to maintain the health of the bones of the mother. During pregnancy, calcium is mainly directed to the development of the fetal skeleton, and if it is not enough in the mother’s diet, the body will take calcium from her bones, which can lead to osteoporosis in the future.

  • The mechanism of action: Calcium is the main component of bone tissue. It is also necessary for the work of muscles, nerves and blood coagulation.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 1000 mg of calcium per day.

  • Sources: Calcium is contained in dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), dark green leafy vegetables (cabbage, broccoli), enriched products and canned fish with bones (sardines, salmon).

• Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the absorption of calcium and the formation of the bones and teeth of the fetus. It is also necessary to maintain the immune function of the mother. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to rickets in a child and increase the risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes in the mother.

  • The mechanism of action: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium from food. It also participates in the regulation of the immune system and cell growth.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 600 IU (international units) of vitamin D per day. Some women may need a higher dose, especially if they have a deficiency of vitamin D.

  • Sources: Vitamin D is found in fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), egg yolk and enriched products (milk, cereals). The main source of vitamin D is sunlight. However, in winter and with a limited stay in the sun, obtaining a sufficient amount of vitamin D only from sunlight can be difficult.

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the cells from damage. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, an important component of the skin, bones and connective tissue. Vitamin C improves iron absorption.

  • The mechanism of action: Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals that can damage the cells. It also participates in the synthesis of collagen and improves the absorption of iron.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 85 mg of vitamin C per day.

  • Sources: Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), berries (strawberries, blueberries), pepper, broccoli and tomatoes.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (non-achexaenic acid), are important for the development of the brain and eye of the fetus. They can also reduce the risk of premature birth.

  • The mechanism of action: DHA is the main structural component of the brain and retina of the eye. She also plays a role in the transmission of nerve impulses.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 200-300 mg DHA per day.

  • Sources: Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), linen seeds, walnuts and enriched products. If you do not consume enough fat fish, it is recommended to take additives with fish oil.

• Iodine: Iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolism. During pregnancy, iodine deficiency can lead to disorders of the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus, as well as to hypothyroidism in the mother.

  • The mechanism of action: Iodine is a component of thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 220 μg of iodine per day.

  • Sources: Iodine is contained in iodized salt, seafood and dairy products.

• Zinc: Zinc is important for immune function, growth and development of cells. Zinc deficiency can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, such as premature birth and low weight at birth.

  • The mechanism of action: Zinc is involved in the work of many enzymes necessary for the immune function, growth and development of cells.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 11 mg of zinc per day.

  • Sources: Zinc is contained in red meat, poultry, seafood, nuts and legumes.

• Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): Vitamin B12 is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and maintaining a healthy nervous system. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and neurological problems.

  • The mechanism of action: Vitamin B12 is involved in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, as well as in DNA synthesis.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 2.6 μg of vitamin B12 per day.

  • Sources: Vitamin B12 is contained in animal products, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy products. Vegetarian and vegans are recommended to take additives with vitamin B12.

• Vitamin A: Vitamin A is important for vision, immune function and cell growth. However, excess vitamin A can be harmful to the fetus, especially in the early stages of pregnancy.

  • The mechanism of action: Vitamin A is involved in vision, immune function and cell growth.

  • Recommended dose: During pregnancy, it is recommended to take 770 μg of vitamin A per day. The use of high doses of vitamin A (more than 3,000 mcg per day) should be avoided, especially in the form of retinol. It is safer to receive vitamin A from foods rich in beta-carotene (carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach), which is converted into vitamin A in the body as necessary.

Risks of deficiency of vitamins and minerals

The deficiency of vitamins and minerals during pregnancy can have serious consequences for both the mother and the child:

• For mother: Anemia, osteoporosis, fatigue, weakness, increased risk of pregnancy complications (preeclampsia, gestational diabetes).
• For a child: Defects of the nervous tube, rickets, low weight at birth, impaired brain and nervous system, increased risk of chronic diseases in the future.

Recommendations for taking vitamins for pregnant women

• Start taking vitamins before conception: It is recommended to start taking vitamins for pregnant women, especially folic acid, 1-3 months before the planned conception.
• Take vitamins regularly: It is important to take vitamins daily, in accordance with the recommendations of the doctor.
• Choose vitamins designed specifically for pregnant women: These vitamins contain the necessary doses of all important vitamins and minerals.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose: Excess of some vitamins, such as vitamin A, can be harmful to the fetus.
• Consult a doctor: Your doctor may recommend you certain vitamins and doses, taking into account your individual needs and health status.
• Pay attention to the composition: Study the composition of the vitamin complex to make sure that it contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal doses.
• Consider your features: If you have any chronic diseases or special needs (for example, vegetarianism), be sure to inform the doctor so that he can choose a suitable vitamin complex for you.
• Combine the use of vitamins with healthy nutrition: Vitamins should not replace a balanced diet. Try to use a variety of products rich in vitamins and minerals.
• Do not take other vitamins and additives without consulting a doctor: Some vitamins and additives can interact with each other or with the medicines that you take.

The choice of the correct vitamin complex

The choice of the right vitamin complex for pregnant women can be a difficult task, taking into account the variety of products available in the market. Here are some tips that will help you make the right choice:

• Pay attention to the composition: Make sure that the complex contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals, such as folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, iodine and omega-3 fatty acids (DHA). Check the dosage of each component.
• Choose complexes designed specifically for pregnant women: These complexes contain optimal doses of vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain the health of the mother and the development of the fetus.
• Consider your individual needs: If you have any chronic diseases or special needs (for example, vegetarianism), consult a doctor so that he can choose a suitable vitamin complex for you.
• Pay attention to the release form: Vitamins for pregnant women are produced in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, chewing tablets and liquids. Choose the form that is most convenient for you.
• Check the availability of quality certificates: Make sure that the vitamin complex has been made in accordance with high quality standards and has passed the necessary checks.
• Read reviews: Check out the reviews of other pregnant women about various vitamin complexes to get an idea of their effectiveness and safety.
• Consult with the pharmacist: A pharmacist can help you choose a suitable vitamin complex, given your individual needs and health status.
• Consider the price: Vitamin complexes for pregnant women can differ significantly in price. Select the complex that corresponds to your budget, but at the same time contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals in optimal doses.
• Consider the complexes with the addition of probiotics: Probiotics can improve digestion and support the immune system, which is especially important during pregnancy.
• Avoid complexes with artificial dyes, flavors and preservatives: These substances can be harmful to health.

Important aspects that should be taken into account:

• Do not take too much vitamin A: High doses of vitamin A can be toxic for the fetus.
• Be careful with herbal additives: Some herbal additives can be unsafe during pregnancy. Consult a doctor before taking any herbal additives.
• Take iron separately from calcium: Calcium can reduce the absorption of iron.
• Tell your doctor about all vitamins and additives that you accept: This will help to avoid unwanted drug interactions.

Following these recommendations, you can choose the right vitamin complex for pregnant women and provide yourself and your child with the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy and development. Remember that consultation with a doctor is mandatory to determine the optimal plan for taking vitamins and minerals, taking into account your individual needs and health status. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle also play an important role in maintaining health during pregnancy.

Side effects of vitamins for pregnant women and how to deal with them

Although vitamins for pregnant women are necessary for the health of the mother and child, they can cause some side effects. The most common of them:

• Nausea: Some vitamins, especially iron, can cause nausea. To reduce nausea, try taking vitamins during meals or before bedtime. Divide the dose into several techniques during the day. Choose chewing vitamins or vitamins in the form of liquid, which are easier to tolerate.
• Constipation: Iron can also cause constipation. To facilitate constipation, drink a lot of water, eat foods rich in fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grain products), and regularly engage in physical exercises. In some cases, a soft laxative may be required, but before that it is necessary to consult a doctor.
• Changing the color of the stool: Iron can color the chair in dark green or black. This is a normal phenomenon and is not an concern.
• Headache: In rare cases, vitamins for pregnant women can cause headache. If the headache is severe or does not pass, consult a doctor.
• Allergic reactions: In rare cases, vitamins for pregnant women can cause allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, edema or difficulty breathing. If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, immediately stop taking vitamins and consult a doctor.

Tips for reducing side effects:

• Take vitamins during meals: This can help reduce nausea and other side effects from the gastrointestinal tract.
• Drink a lot of water: This will help prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
• Divide the dose into several techniques: If you have side effects, try dividing the dose of vitamins into several doses during the day.
• Try different vitamin complexes: If one vitamin complex causes side effects, try another.
• Consult a doctor: If side effects are strong or do not pass, consult a doctor.

Vitamins for pregnant women and eco (extracurporeal fertilization):

It is especially important for women to take vitamins for pregnant women, as they are subjected to a higher hormonal stress and require additional support for preparing the body for pregnancy and maintaining it. Folic acid, vitamin D, inositol and coenzyme Q10 are often recommended as additional additives to increase the chances of successful conception and gestation after IVF. It is important to discuss individual needs and recommendations for taking vitamins with a reproductologist.

Nutrition and vitamins: balance

Remember that vitamins for pregnant women are an addition to a healthy diet, and not its replacement. Try to adhere to a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat proteins and healthy fats. A balanced nutrition provides the body with the main nutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy, and vitamins for pregnant women help to make up for possible gaps in the diet and provide a sufficient amount of necessary trace elements.

The final word (not to be included in the article, only for reference):

It is important to remember that the information presented in this article is intended only for educational purposes and should not be considered as a medical consultation. Always consult your doctor or other qualified medical worker to get individual recommendations for taking vitamins and minerals during pregnancy.