Pregnancy is a significant physiological transition for women, requiring a delicate balance of various nutrients to support both maternal health and proper fetal development. Maintaining a healthy pregnancy isn’t simply a matter of well-being, but a fundamental necessity, according to physicians.
When a pregnant woman is seen by an obstetrician, her nutritional status is evaluated to identify any potential deficiencies. The absence of even a single nutrient isn’t an isolated problem, but can trigger a cascade of interactions leading to deficiencies in related substances.
Nutrients Don’t Work in Isolation
Dr. Kavita G. Aithal, a consultant in obstetrics and gynecology at Gita Hospital in Bangalore, explains that nutrients are interdependent in performing their functions within the body. She adds that the body’s needs during pregnancy are higher than usual, making any deficiency more impactful.
Vitamin C, for example, isn’t solely an antioxidant; it plays a crucial role in enhancing iron absorption from plant-based sources. Low levels of vitamin C can reduce the body’s ability to utilize iron, even with a diet rich in it.
Anemia and Beyond
Iron deficiency is one of the most common issues during pregnancy, but the situation can be more complex. Research published in PubMed Central shows that deficiencies in folic acid or vitamin B12 can also lead to different types of anemia, increasing feelings of fatigue and affecting the efficiency of oxygen transport in the body.
Low vitamin C levels can further impair iron absorption, making the treatment of anemia more difficult if it relies solely on iron supplements without addressing other underlying deficiencies.
Bone Health at Risk
Vitamin D is directly linked to the body’s ability to absorb calcium. Studies published in PubMed Central indicate that deficiencies in vitamin D and calcium during pregnancy can lead to decreased bone density in the mother, as well as negatively impacting the skeletal development of the fetus.
Immunity and Energy
Deficiencies in vitamin D, zinc, and protein can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infection. With recurrent infections, the body’s nutrient stores can be further depleted, negatively impacting both maternal and fetal health.
B vitamins also play a key role in energy production, and any deficiency can disrupt metabolism, leading to persistent fatigue that isn’t solely linked to iron deficiency, but to a disruption in the entire energy system.
Experts emphasize that addressing a pregnant woman’s nutritional needs should be comprehensive and integrated, with a careful assessment of different nutrient levels to avoid a chain of deficiencies that can affect the course of the pregnancy and the health of the fetus.
The Mayo Clinic highlights that during pregnancy, a focus on essential nutrients is paramount. While a healthy diet generally consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, certain nutrients require special attention. , the clinic published guidance emphasizing folate and folic acid as crucial for preventing brain and spinal cord defects. They recommend 400 micrograms (mcg) a day of folate or folic acid before becoming pregnant, and 600 to 1,000 micrograms throughout pregnancy, obtainable from fortified cereals, dark leafy greens, citrus fruits, and legumes.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) further supports the need for increased nutrient intake during pregnancy to support both maternal and fetal health. Their fact sheet on pregnancy health emphasizes the importance of vitamins, minerals, choline, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Approximately 300 extra calories are needed each day during pregnancy, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine, and these should come from a balanced diet.
