Vitamins are not only required for your health, but also for the growth and development of your arriving baby.
Read ahead to know how.
The first 1000 days of life (from conception till after and up to two years) are most important to prevent any kind of nutritional deficiencies in the mother. This blog explains the need for increased intake of vitamins and other micronutrients during pregnancy; with the highlight on a few crucial ones.
Vitamins for a healthy pregnancy
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps in the overall development of the child as well as provides better immunity. It is also important for vision development in the fetus.
Sources: Liver, fish liver oils, milk, eggs, butter, carrots and dark-green leafy vegetables.
Vitamin D
It helps in bone formation, boosting immunity and proper cell division. Low levels of vitamin D can affect the heart as well as cause damage to the brain.
Sources: Egg yolk, salmon and cod liver oil.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an important antioxidant that traps free radicals and prevents oxidation of unsaturated fatty acids thereby preventing cell damage. Deficiency of vitamin E leads to the premature birth of infants, anaemia and malabsorption of fats.
Vitamin K
This vitamin is required for the production of blood clotting factors and hence low levels can cause bleeding disorders.
Sources: Leafy vegetables, dairy products, meat and eggs.
Vitamin C
Absorption of iron is enhanced by this vitamin, and this is important to prevent iron deficiency anaemia. It also prevents damage to cells and membranes by acting as a strong antioxidant.
Sources: Citrus fruits, bell peppers, green beans, strawberries, papaya, potatoes, broccoli.
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin B1 helps in the development of the nervous system of the baby, B2 is responsible for healthy skin, B3 promotes healthy skin, nerves and digestive system, B6 helps in forming red blood cells. Folate is one of the most important vitamins as it supports the placenta and prevents spina bifida and neural tube defects (defect in the brain, spine or spinal cord).
Sources: The sources may vary depending upon the type of vitamin B but, the general sources are eggs, meat, dairy products, vegetables and fruits.
A wholesome diet goes a long way in ensuring the carrying mother and the developing baby are nutritionally fit for a fruitful life ahead.
Do not miss out on these vitamins as they ensure well-being for you and your baby!
No Comments