Nutritional support in pregnancy: Possibilities for the prevention of obstetric complications

Abstract

This review focuses on the causes and consequences of nutritional deficiencies in the pregnant woman’s diet, as well as on the possibilities of its supplementation. It has been shown that inadequate intake of vitamins and minerals during pregnancy is accompanied by a lack of nutrient supply to the fetus, which can cause growth retardation, low birth weight and other obstetric and perinatal complications. According to the analysed guidelines and recommendations, the body’s need for vitamins and minerals increases at least twice as much during pregnancy. Adverse effects of the environment, a number of gastrointestinal and liver diseases, chronic diseases, antibiotic therapy, etc. increase this need. However, adequate nutritional support of the fetus is the result of several steps. These include the frequency of maternal food intake, the availability of nutrients in the food and the ability of the placenta to transport substrates effectively to the fetus. The most recommended vitamin for consumption in pregnancy is folic acid, alone or in combination with other B vitamins, as its deficiency leads to birth defects in the child. The authors of this review have reviewed a number of large studies conducted over the past decade that recommend iron and folic acid for pregnant women, regardless of dietary intake, as they have proven beneficial effects on the course and outcome of pregnancy. Folic acid, according to current recommendations, must be prescribed to every pregnant woman in the form of 400 mcg tablets daily regardless of her diet. Other most important and necessary vitamins for pregnant women are: vitamins A, C, D, E, K, B1, B2, B6, B12, PP, pantothenic acid, biotin.