Micronutrients During Pregnancy And Lactation
January 21, 2009
Pregnant and lactating women in developing countries face a risk of being anaemic and deficient in many other micronutrients. Usually, they lack vitamin A, zinc and vitamin B. Inadequate dietary intake can result in these deficiencies. These deficiencies can pose serious risk to the mother and the child and also weaken the mother further for her next pregnancy.
Micronutrient supplementation
Depending on the history, presence of risk factors and physical condition of the mother, vitamins and mineral supplements are provided. If dietary intake is insufficient, then supplements can offer help.
Just because you are taking dietary supplements, does not in any way mean that you do not need to take care about your diet. It is just as important to eat right even if you are taking supplements. You should take these between meals to ensure proper absorption.
Folic acid
This is a co-enzyme and it is required for normal metabolism, tissue turnover and growth. During pregnancy, it is important in organogenesis. An increased risk of neural tube defect occurs in case of folate deficiency in the first few weeks of pregnancy.
You can alter your diet, take supplements or have fortified foods to make sure that you are taking sufficient folate.
Vitamin B12
Cyanocobalamin or vitamin B12 aids normal cell division and protein synthesis. You can have it from meats, fish, eggs and milk. Vitamin B12 deficiency can become intense in breast fed babies.
Vitamin B6
This is necessary for protein, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and also for erythrocyte and immune function. It can be effective in treating nausea and vomiting of early pregnancy.
Vitamin C
Its main function is as a chemical reducing agent and is necessary for different metabolic functions. Deficiency can result in impaired collagen synthesis and even scurvy. You can easily get vitamin C from fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin A
It is fat soluble and helps in glycoprotein synthesis and promoting cell growth and differentiation. It helps the sight. You can easily get enough from diet and no supplements are generally required.
Iron
This is most common in case of anaemic women. Iron requirements increase during pregnancy and hence, you can meet the recommended dose by taking supplements. However, supplements should not be taken with milk, tea or coffee.
Calcium
Calcium requirements also increase during pregnancy and supplements are a necessity for women who have lactose intolerance. However, effectiveness of supplements is doubtful. Vitamin D is an important ingredient for calcium absorption. You can easily get it from sunlight and even fortified milk.
Zinc
It is necessary for growth and usually supplements help improve the condition.
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