The period of pregnancy comes with many changes regarding the body of the expectant mother, and the need for nutrients varies compared to the period before pregnancy, but also from one trimester of pregnancy to another. We suggest you find out which vitamins and food supplements are recommended during pregnancy, along with a healthy diet.
Before taking any dietary supplement, you should know that not every pharmaceutical formula is allowed in pregnancy. This is exactly why you should always ask your gynecologist for permission before taking any dietary supplement or treatment.
Vitamins and supplements recommended during pregnancy
Acodul folic
Folic acid or vitamin B9 is especially important during pregnancy, and doctors recommend folic acid supplementation from the preconception period.
Here are the main roles of folic acid in pregnancy:
Development of the brain and nervous system: Folic acid is essential for the proper formation of the neural tube of the fetus during the first weeks of pregnancy. A well-developed neural tube is fundamental to the development of a child’s brain and central nervous system. Folic acid deficiency can lead to neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Synthesis of DNA and RNA: Folic acid is involved in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, which is crucial for cell development and growth. As the fetus develops rapidly, it requires additional amounts of folic acid to support this cellular growth. Cell division: Folic acid helps in the proper regulation of cell division, which is essential for the healthy development and growth of the fetus. Blood formation: Folic acid is involved in the formation of red and white blood cells, which is important for carrying oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and for maintaining the mother’s health during pregnancy. Amino acid metabolism: Proteins are essential for the development of fetal tissues and organs. Reducing the risk of birth defects: Folic acid supplementation before and during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of birth defects, especially those associated with the neural tube.
Prenatal vitamins
There are several manufacturers who have made prenatal vitamins, some have even dosed them according to the trimester of pregnancy, because yes, there are nutritional differences from one trimester of pregnancy to another.
It’s good to ask your doctor for advice when choosing prenatal vitamins, but most offer the same range of nutrients needed during pregnancy.
Omega 3
Recent studies prove the importance of Omega-3 fatty acids for the good development of the baby, but also for maintaining the health of the pregnant woman.
Research has shown that adding EPA and DHA (two Omega-3 fatty acids) to the diet of pregnant women has a positive effect on the baby’s visual and cognitive development and could reduce the risk of allergies in young children.
Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in foods such as salmon, tuna, hake, but also in raw seeds and oleaginous fruits, such as olives, shelled hemp seeds, etc.
Vitamin D in pregnancy
We already know that pregnant women are not recommended to expose themselves to the sun, but they also need vitamin D both for maintaining their own health and for the development of the bone system and not only of the baby.
Here are some of the most important roles of vitamin D in pregnancy:
Calcium absorption: Vitamin D helps absorb calcium from food or supplements. This is essential for the healthy development of the bones and teeth of the fetus. As the fetus grows rapidly and needs calcium for bone development, vitamin D is crucial for ensuring sufficient calcium availability. Immune function: Vitamin D plays an important role in immune function and can help protect both mother and fetus against infection. A healthy immune system is essential during pregnancy to prevent complications. Blood pressure regulation: Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication. Development of the nervous system: Vitamin D may also play a role in the development of the fetal nervous system. Management of gestational diabetes: Vitamin D may have a beneficial effect in preventing gestational diabetes, a condition that occurs during pregnancy and is associated with high blood sugar levels. Maternal well-being: Vitamin D deficiency can be associated with health conditions such as depression and fatigue, which can affect a mother’s general well-being during pregnancy.
Article photo source: Blue Planet Studio/ shutterstock.com
2023-09-07 20:09:39
#Vitamins #supplements #recommended #pregnancy
