Practice good prenatal nutrition, for baby's sake

Better Nutrition, July, 1998 by Victoria Dolby

In the nine short months of pregnancy, a tiny cluster of cells grows into a fully functioning human being. Of course, this amazing transformation takes building blocks -- and these building blocks, supplied via the mother's diet, include all of the essential nutrients: carbohydrates, protein, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water.

Getting off to a good start: crucial nutrients for you and baby

The first trimester of pregnancy is when all the critical tissue differentiation and organ formation takes place. Once that is accomplished, the rest of the pregnancy (the following six months) is primarily focused on growth and putting the finishing touches on the organs. Consequently, providing the growing fetus with the best nutrition possible is essential. Unlike a newborn, who can cry when he or she is hungry, the fetus has to hope that plenty of nutrients will make their way through the placenta.

During the earliest stages of pregnancy, one of the more crucial nutrients that a growing fetus requires is the B vitamin folic acid. Inadequate folio acid in the first few weeks of pregnancy (often before a woman even knows she is pregnant) increases the risk of bearing a child with a neural tube defect (NTD), such as spina bifida or anencephaly, conditions where the embryonic neural tube that forms the future brain and spinal column fails to close properly. Several other birth defects, including cleft lip, cleft palate, cardiovascular disorders, and impaired neurological development in newborns, have also been linked to low maternal folic acid intake.

Given the paramount importance of folio acid, it's not surprising that the U.S. Public Health Service now recommends a daily intake of 400 mcg of folic acid for all women -- puberty through menopause -- to prevent birth defects in their offspring.

The bad news is that deficiencies of folic acid are among the most common of all vitamin deficiencies. But the good news about folio acid is that a recent survey found that a growing number of women know that folio acid is crucial during pregnancy. According to this survey, 73 percent of women boosted their folic acid intake before or during their pregnancies (mostly through the use of supplements).

The best dietary sources of folio acid are dark green leafy vegetables, brewer's yeast, orange juice, and broccoli. For most women, a multiple one-a-day type supplement that includes folic acid or a stand-alone folio acid supplement is the easiest way to maintain adequate folic acid status.

Two fats are essential for a developing baby: linoleic and omega-3 fatty acids. Normal eye and vision development depends on adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oils and other sources. Animal studies show that diets deficient in DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, one of the omega-3's) result in offspring with abnormal vision and behavior problems. DHA may be especially important for premature infants. Omega-3 fatty acids may also be beneficial in preventing and treating high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy.

Choline is a vitamin B-like substance that is not technically classified as an essential vitamin because the body can produce it. However, choline is essential to health. For example, choline is a building block for phospholipids, fats needed in cell membranes. Choline also contributes to the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is important in brain function and memory. Research indicates that choline must be present for normal brain development.

Zinc is a special concern during pregnancy. First, pregnant women run a high risk of zinc deficiency. Even a marginal deficiency of zinc increases a woman's chances of having a spontaneous abortion, premature delivery, or prolonged labor. Second, inadequate zinc levels may increase the risk of malformations of the eyes, heart, lungs, and other organs.

Since certain birth defects cause permanent damage in the early weeks of pregnancy, before most women even know they are pregnant, it would be prudent for any women who are planning a family to supplement with a multiple vitamin and mineral formula.

REFERENCE

Anonymous. "Taking folio acid becoming more common among pregnant women and those planning pregnancy," J Adv Nursing 27:235-240, 1998.