Dangers of Vitamin Deficiency During Pregnancy

Dangers of Vitamin Deficiency During Pregnancy

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By Angela Betsaida B. Laguipo, BSNReviewed by Dr. Jennifer Logan, MD, MPH

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• What vitamins and nutrients are essential during pregnancy?
• Vitamin B12
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin D
• Folate
• Iron
• Calcium
• What are the dangers of vitamin deficiency during pregnancy?
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Vitamin D deficiency
• Vitamin C deficiency

During pregnancy, the body prepares for the fetus’ development and the breastfeeding process.  The body goes through many physical and hormonal changes. The mother needs to consume more foods rich in vitamins and nutrients to support the baby.

Proper weight gain and eating healthily reduces the risk of complications. Subsequently, the woman’s nutritional condition affects the infant later in life, particularly in his cognitive development, heart health, and the tendency to become overweight or obese.

The food pregnant mothers eat is the major source of nourishment of the body, so it’s vital to consume foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients.

What vitamins and nutrients are essential during pregnancy?

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin is an essential vitamin that plays a pivotal role in the production of red blood cells. It’s also important for neurological function and DNA synthesis. Vitamin B12, which is bound to protein in food, is released by the activity of gastric protease and hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

When combined with folic acid during pregnancy, vitamin B12 can help prevent spina bifida and other spinal or central nervous system birth defects. Mothers deficient in B12are more likely to give birth to infants affected by spina bifida.

The major sources of vitamin B12 are beef, ham, pork, fish, dairy products, eggs, chicken, nutritional yeast products, and lamb.