In Indonesia, deficiencies of vitamin A and iron are of public health concern during pregnancy. We sought to determine the effects of vitamin A and iron supplementation on the vitamin A and iron status of pregnant Indonesian women. The women (n = 27) were randomly assigned to four groups. The modified relative dose response (MRDR) test for vitamin A status and hemoglobin, hematocrit and ferritin values were determined at baseline. Thereafter, daily supplements were administered: Placebo [Pl] (n = 7), 8.4 μmol vitamin A [A] (n = 7), 1.07 mmol iron [Fe] (n = 5), and 8.4 μmol vitamin A plus 1.07 mmol iron [A + Fe] (n = 8). Post-treatment tests were performed after 8 wk. The MRDR value was reduced, i.e., vitamin A status improved, more markedly by the combination of vitamin A and iron than by either nutrient alone (P = 0.034). The decrease in the MRDR relative to baseline was significant in the A + Fe group (P = 0.008). Iron status was also significantly improved in these women (P < 0.05) with both iron and vitamin A supplementation. The mechanism of the enhancing effect of iron on the vitamin A-induced reduction in the MRDR is not known.
CITATION STYLE
Tanumihardjo, S. A. (2002). Vitamin A and iron status are improved by vitamin A and iron supplementation in pregnant Indonesian women. Journal of Nutrition, 132(7), 1909–1912. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/132.7.1909
Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.