Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Essential Vitamins and Minerals for Women During Pregnancy

Women should take proper care at the time of pregnancy and should be very careful in having sufficient amount of vitamins and minerals for their developing babies.

Folic acid: This is essential as it can help to prevent birth defects known as neural tube defects which may cause a condition called spina bifida. This is found in green leafy vegetables and brown rice. A bigger dose of folic acid is necessary if a pregnant women has diabetes and epilepsy (fits). Pregnant women need around 1000 mcg folic acid.

Vitamin D: This helps in maintaining healthy bones teeth by regulating some amount of calcium and phosphate in the body. Also to provide enough Vitamin D for the baby.

Iron: An essential nutrient for pregnant women which helps to support hemoglobin in the blood. At the early of pregnancy, the blood supply increases to support baby at development. About 27mg of iron is required daily.

Calcium: This is essential in making up baby's bones and teeth. Bread, almond and green leafy vegetables are good sources of calcium.

Vitamin C: This plays a vital role for absorbing iron from food. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes and orange juice contain Vitamin C. About 70 mg is required everyday.

Women should ensure that adequate amount of vitamins and minerals are taken to promote healthy development of the baby. Some pregnant women lack in vitamins and minerals due to various reasons such as insufficient dietary intake, having nausea and vomiting during pregnancy and poor absorbance of nutrients by the digestive system.

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