Bades and pregnancy: what is possible and what is impossible – a detailed guide for future mothers
I. Pregnancy and the need for nutrients: Review
Pregnancy is a period of significant physiological changes that requires increased consumption of nutrients. The body of the future mother provides the development of the fetus, and also supports its own needs. The lack of certain vitamins, minerals and other biologically active substances can lead to adverse consequences for both the mother and the child. In this regard, many pregnant women turn to biologically active additives (dietary supplements) in the hope of making up for possible deficits and provide optimal health. However, the intake of dietary supplements during pregnancy requires special attention and consultation with a doctor, since some of them can be unsafe or even harmful.
IA basic nutrients necessary during pregnancy
During pregnancy, the following nutrients are especially important:
- Folic acid (vitamin B9): Critically important to prevent defects in the nervous tube in the fetus, such as the back of bifid. It is recommended to start taking folic acid even before conception and continue during the first trimester of pregnancy.
- Iron: It is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, carrying oxygen in the blood. During pregnancy, the need for iron increases significantly due to an increase in the volume of the blood of the mother and the needs of the fetus. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue and premature childbirth.
- Calcium: It is important for the development of bones and teeth of the fetus, as well as for maintaining the health of the mother’s bones.
- Vitamin D: It is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, as well as for the development of the fetal immune system.
- Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): Important for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. Contained in fish oil and some vegetable oils.
- Iodine: It is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, both in the mother and in the child. Iodine deficiency can lead to a delay in mental development in a child.
- Vitamin B12: It is necessary for the normal functioning of the nervous system and the formation of red blood cells. B12 deficiency can lead to neurological problems in a child.
- Vitamin C: Participates in the formation of collagen, strengthens the immune system and helps to absorb iron.
- Zinc: It is necessary for the growth and development of the fetus, as well as for the normal function of the immune system.
- Protein: The building material for all tissues of the body is necessary for the growth and development of the fetus.
IB risks associated with a deficiency of nutrients during pregnancy
The deficiency of nutrients during pregnancy can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Development defects in the fetus: For example, folic acid deficiency can cause defects in the nervous tube.
- Premature birth: The lack of iron, calcium and other nutrients can increase the risk of premature birth.
- Low birth weight: Insufficient nutrition of the mother can lead to the birth of a child with low weight, which is associated with an increased risk of incidence and mortality in infancy.
- Anemia at the mother: Iron deficiency often leads to anemia in pregnant women, which can cause fatigue, weakness and increased susceptibility to infections.
- Problems with bones and teeth in the mother: The lack of calcium can lead to a weakening of bones and teeth in a pregnant woman.
- Mental development in the child: The deficiency of iodine, iron and other nutrients can negatively affect the mental development of the child.
- Complications during childbirth: Insufficient nutrition can increase the risk of complications during childbirth.
II. Bad: what is it and how they are regulated
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are products designed to supplement the diet. They can contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs and other substances. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment, prevention or diagnosis of diseases.
II.A. DIAM differences and drugs
The main difference between dietary supplements and drugs is to regulate them and areas of use. Medicines undergo strict clinical trials to prove their effectiveness and safety. They are designed for the treatment, prevention or diagnosis of diseases. Bades do not pass such strict tests and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Their main goal is to supplement the diet and improve the general state of health.
II.B. Dietary supplement regulation in different countries (brief review)
Adjustment of dietary supplements varies in different countries. In the United States, dietary supplements are regulated by products control controls (FDA) as food, and not as medicines. This means that FDA does not require preliminary approval of dietary supplements before their entry on sale. However, the FDA may take measures against dietary supplements if they are recognized as unsafe or contain false information. In Europe, the regulation of dietary supplements also varies depending on the country. The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) assesses the safety of ingredients used in BAD. In Russia, dietary supplements are regulated by Rospotrebnadzor. Manufacturers and importers of dietary supplements must receive a certificate of state registration in order to sell their products in Russia.
II.C. Risks associated with low -quality dietary supplements
Since the regulation of dietary supplements is not as strict as the regulation of drugs, there are risks associated with low -quality dietary supplements. These risks include:
- Incorrect marking: The dietary supplement may contain the ingredients not indicated on the label, or contain the wrong amount of ingredients.
- Pollution: Bad can be polluted by heavy metals, pesticides or other harmful substances.
- Interaction with drugs: Bad can interact with drugs, which can lead to undesirable side effects.
- Lack of proven effectiveness: Some dietary supplements do not have proven effectiveness and can simply be useless.
III. Dietary supplements that should be avoided during pregnancy
During pregnancy, you should avoid taking certain dietary supplements, since they can be dangerous for the mother and child.
III.A. Herbal additives with proven toxicity
Some herbal additives contain substances that can be toxic for pregnant women and fetus. Such additives include:
- Solo root: It can increase blood pressure and cause premature birth.
- Dudnik Chinese (Dong quai): It can stimulate uterine contractions and cause a miscarriage.
- Ephcedra: It can increase blood pressure, rapid heartbeat and cause premature birth.
- Diaghil root: It can have an anticoagulant effect and increase the risk of bleeding.
- Black Kokhosh: It can stimulate uterine contractions and cause premature birth.
- Goldenger: It can cause a toxic effect on the liver.
- Aloe: It has a laxative effect, can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
- Yohimbe: It can increase blood pressure and cause anxiety.
- Red Clover: Contains estrogen -like substances that can disrupt the hormonal balance.
III.B. Vitamins and minerals in high doses
Reception of vitamins and minerals in high doses can be dangerous during pregnancy. For example:
- Vitamin A (Retinol): High doses of vitamin A can cause malformations in the fetus, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. A safe dose of vitamin A during pregnancy is not more than 10,000 IU per day. It should be avoided taking additives containing retinol and use a moderate amount of products rich in vitamin A, such as the liver.
- Vitamin D: Although vitamin D is necessary during pregnancy, its intake in very high doses can lead to hypercalcemia (an increased level of calcium in the blood), which can be dangerous for the fetus. The recommended dose of vitamin D during pregnancy is 600-800 IU per day.
- Iron: Although iron is necessary during pregnancy, its use in very high doses can cause nausea, vomiting, constipation and other side effects. The recommended dose of iron during pregnancy is 27 mg per day. Take iron additives should only as prescribed by a doctor.
- Vitamin C: Taking vitamin C in very high doses can cause nausea, diarrhea and other side effects. The recommended dose of vitamin C during pregnancy is 85 mg per day.
- Vitamin E: Taking vitamin E in high doses can increase the risk of bleeding. The recommended dose of vitamin E during pregnancy is 15 mg per day.
III.C. Other additives that should be avoided
In addition, during pregnancy, the following additives should be avoided:
- Creatine: Used to increase muscle mass and strength. Creatine safety during pregnancy has not been studied.
- Progormones (dhea, Androstendion): They can disrupt the hormonal balance and cause defects of development in the fetus.
- Slimming additives: Most weight loss additives are not safe during pregnancy.
- Energy drinks: Contain high doses of caffeine, which can be dangerous for the fetus.
- Bad containing phenylephrine or pseudo -epedrine: These substances can increase blood pressure and cause premature birth.
IV. Dietary supplements that can be useful during pregnancy (under the supervision of a doctor)
Some dietary supplements can be useful during pregnancy, but their intake should always be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.
IV.A. Folic acid (vitamin B9)
Folic acid is one of the most important nutrients during pregnancy. It is necessary to prevent defects in the nervous tube in the fetus, such as the back of bifid. It is recommended to start taking folic acid even before conception and continue during the first trimester of pregnancy. The recommended dose of folic acid during pregnancy is 400-800 μg per day. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe a higher dose, for example, if a woman already had children with defects in the nervous tube.
IV.B. Iron
During pregnancy, the need for iron increases significantly. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue and premature childbirth. The recommended dose of iron during pregnancy is 27 mg per day. Take iron additives should only as prescribed by a doctor, since an excess of iron can be harmful. It is important to remember that iron is better absorbed with vitamin C.
IV.C. Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, as well as for the development of the fetal immune system. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to problems with bones and teeth in the mother and child. The recommended dose of vitamin D during pregnancy is 600-800 IU per day. The doctor can recommend a higher dose if the woman has a deficiency of vitamin D.
IV.D. Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA)
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. It is recommended to consume products rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines). If the use of fish is limited, the doctor can recommend the reception of additives with omega-3 fatty acids. It is important to choose additives that do not contain mercury and other pollutants. The recommended dose of DHA during pregnancy is 200-300 mg per day.
IV.E. Calcium
Calcium is important for the development of bones and teeth of the fetus, as well as for maintaining the health of the mother’s bones. It is recommended to consume products rich in calcium, such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, tofu. If the consumption of calcium with food is not enough, the doctor may recommend taking calcium additives. The recommended dose of calcium during pregnancy is 1000-1300 mg per day.
IV.F. Iodine
Iodine is necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, both in the mother and in the child. Iodine deficiency can lead to a delay in mental development in a child. It is recommended to use iodized salt and products rich in iodine, such as seafood. The doctor can recommend taking additives with iodine, especially if a woman lives in a region with iodine deficiency. The recommended dose of iodine during pregnancy is 150 μg per day.
IV.G. Probiotics (in some cases)
Probiotics are living microorganisms that bring health benefits. Some studies show that probiotics can be useful during pregnancy to maintain a healthy intestinal microflora and reduce the risk of developing certain diseases, such as vaginal candidiasis and gestational diabetes. However, additional studies are needed to confirm these results. Reception of probiotics during pregnancy should be discussed with a doctor.
V. Safe intake of dietary supplements during pregnancy: Practical recommendations
To ensure safe intake of dietary supplements during pregnancy, the following recommendations must be followed:
VA Consultation with a doctor
Before taking any dietary supplements during pregnancy, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will evaluate your health status, conduct the necessary tests and determine which dietary supplement you really need. It will also help to choose the right dosage and reception mode.
VB informing a doctor about the dietary supplement
Tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept even if they seem harmless to you. Some dietary supplements can interact with drugs or influence the results of analyzes.
VC selection of quality dietary supplements
Choose a dietary supplement from famous and reliable manufacturers. Pay attention to the quality certificates and customer reviews. Avoid buying dietary supplements in doubtful places.
VD dosage compliance
Strictly follow the recommended dosage of dietary supplements. Do not exceed the dose indicated on the label or prescribed by a doctor. Reception of vitamins and minerals in high doses can be dangerous.
VE ABOVER Reading labels
Before receiving dietary supplement, carefully read the label. Make sure that there are no ingredients that should be avoided during pregnancy. Pay attention to contraindications and possible side effects.
Vf health monitoring
Carefully monitor your health condition during dietary supplement. If you notice any side effects, stop taking dietary supplements and consult a doctor.
Vg nutrition as a basis for health
Remember that dietary supplement is only an addition to a healthy diet. Try to receive all the necessary nutrients from a variety of and balanced diet. Use a lot of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein and healthy fats.
VI. Alternative ways to obtain the necessary nutrients
Instead of taking dietary supplements, you can try to get all the necessary nutrients from food.
VI.A. Balanced diet for pregnant women
A balanced diet for pregnant women should include:
- Fruits and vegetables: Contain vitamins, minerals and fiber.
- Whole grain products: Contain fiber, vitamins and minerals.
- Low -fat protein: It is necessary for the growth and development of the fetus. Sources of low -fat protein include chicken, fish, legumes, tofu.
- Dairy products: Contain calcium and vitamin D.
- Useful fats: Necessary for the development of the brain and vision of the fetus. Sources of healthy fats include olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds.
Vi.b. Products rich in basic nutrients (examples)
- Folic acid: Dark green leafy vegetables (spinach, broccoli, Romen salad), legumes (lentils, beans), citrus fruits.
- Iron: Red meat, poultry, fish, legumes (lentils, beans), spinach, iron enriched with iron.
- Calcium: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), green leafy vegetables (cabbage, spinach), tofu, calcium products.
- Vitamin D: Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), egg yolks, products enriched with vitamin D products.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Fat fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines), linen seeds, walnuts, chia seeds.
- Iodine: Iodized salt, seafood, seaweed.
- Vitamin B12: Meat, fish, dairy products, eggs enriched with vitamin B12 products.
- Vitamin C: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits), strawberries, kiwi, bell pepper, broccoli.
- Zinc: Meat, poultry, seafood, legumes, nuts, seeds.
- Protein: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, tofu, film.
VII. Myths and misconceptions about dietary supplements during pregnancy
There are many myths and misconceptions about dietary supplements during pregnancy. It is important to know the truth in order to make reasonable decisions.
VII.A. “All dietary supplements are safe, it means safe”
This is a dangerous delusion. Many herbs and plant components used in dietary supplements can be toxic or cause side effects, especially during pregnancy. “Natural” does not always mean “safe”.
VII.B. “If other pregnant women accept this dietary supplement, then it is safe for me”
Each pregnancy is unique, and the need for nutrients can vary. That which is safe for one woman can be dangerous to another. Always consult your doctor.
VII.C. “Dietrs replace good nutrition”
Bades are an addition, not a replacement for good nutrition. They do not contain all the necessary nutrients and cannot provide all the advantages of a balanced diet.
VII.D. “The more vitamins, the better”
Reception of vitamins and minerals in high doses can be dangerous. It is important to observe the recommended dosage and avoid overdose.
VII.E. “All dietary supplements are effective”
The effectiveness of many dietary supplements has not been proved by scientific research. Some of them can be just useless. It is important to choose a dietary supplement with proven effectiveness and consult a doctor.
VIII. The future of dietary supplements and pregnancy
Studies of dietary supplements and pregnancy are ongoing. In the future, perhaps new data will appear on the effectiveness and safety of various dietary supplements during pregnancy. It is important to monitor new research and the recommendations of doctors.
VIII.A. New research and safety research
Scientists are constantly conducting research to assess the effectiveness and safety of various dietary supplements during pregnancy. These studies help determine which dietary supplements can be useful and which should be avoided.
VIII.B. Development of a personalized approach to receiving dietary supplement
In the future, a personalized approach to receiving dietary supplements during pregnancy will be available. This means that the recommendations for receiving dietary supplements will be developed on the basis of individual needs and characteristics of each woman.
VIII.C. Increased public awareness of risks and advantages of dietary supplements
It is important to increase the awareness of the population about risks and advantages of dietary supplements during pregnancy. This will help women make reasonable decisions on dietary supplement and take care of their health and their child’s health.
IX. Important questions that the doctor should be asked about the admission of dietary supplements during pregnancy
- What dietary supplement do I need during pregnancy?
- What dosage is safe for me and my child?
- What dietary supplements should be avoided during pregnancy?
- Can diet be interacting with the drugs that I take?
- What side effects can occur when taking dietary supplements?
- How to choose high -quality dietary supplements?
- What tests do I need to hand over to determine the need for dietary supplements?
- How long do I need to take dietary supplements?
- Do I need to stop taking dietary supplements before childbirth?
- Where can I get additional dietary supplements during pregnancy?
Following these recommendations and consulting with a doctor, future mothers can provide themselves and their child with optimal health and well -being. Take care of yourself and your baby!