IMPORTANCE OF VITAMIN D DURING PREGNANCY

During pregnancy, there is a great need to take care of your health and nutrition. Health problems or deficiencies during pregnancy can seriously harm both the mother and the fetus. Therefore, pregnant woman are advised to frequently visit their obstetrician and gynecologist and care for their nutrition with a healthy, balanced diet.

Your gynecologist can monitor your health throughout pregnancy and recommend required supplementation to ensure optimal health of you and the child. Since some certain deficiencies are common during pregnancy, it is best to get yourself checked out.

Vitamin D deficiency in particular is common among pregnant women. Since vitamin D has a large role in the health of the fetus, it is important to monitor vitamin D levels and take vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy as necessary.
 

Function of Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble steroid vitamin, having both the function of a hormone and a vitamin. It has a large role in the healthy function of the entire body. Some of the major functions of vitamin D includes:

  • Regulates level of calcium and phosphorus
  • Aids absorption of calcium to maintain strong bones and teeth
  • Supports the immune system and brain health
  • Facilitates health cell division
  • Supports lung and cardiovascular health
  • Regulates insulin levels

Therefore, vitamin D is necessary for the maintenance of strong and healthy bones, as well as for brain, heart, and lung health. It also prevents sicknesses and flu by boosting the immune system.

Vitamin D is especially essential for promoting a health pregnancy and the birth of healthy infants. The fetus derives vitamin D only through maternal stores, so it is vital for mother’s to monitor their level and take vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy.

Vitamin D Deficiency in Pregnancy

A deficiency in vit D can cause serious problems in women during pregnancy. Studies have shown that a deficiency can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia, a condition that causes high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Furthermore, it may also increase the risk of pre-term birth and premature birth.

A vitamin D deficiency can also harm the healthy bone development of the child. Vit D deficiencies have also been shown to increase the risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular problems in babies.

Therefore, pregnant mothers must ensure healthy levels of this vitamin, for the sake of their health as well as the health of the fetus. Speak to your obstetrician and gynecologist if you are experiencing any symptoms or signs of a vitamin D deficiencies.
 

Vitamin D Supplementation During Pregnancy

Pregnant women are encouraged to maintain a well-balanced, healthy diet in order to prevent any nutritional deficiencies. However, sources of vitamin D in foods are limited. Some sources are:

  • Egg yolk
  • Salmon and cod liver oil
  • Fortified milk products
  • D1 fortified cereals

Unfortunately, most foods lack a substantial amount of vitamin D. Furthermore, Vit D can be absorbed through exposure to sunlight. However, there are many external factors that can affect the absorption of vit D, including availability to sunlight, climate, weight, etc.

Therefore, in most cases, vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy is a must. Vitamin D supplementation will ensure that you receive the daily recommended amount. Hence, it is important to speak to your gynecologist about the best vitamin D supplementation and dosage for you.

For the best specialist obstetrician and gynecologist in Dubai, visit Dr. Susanne Grothey at the German Heart Centre. She is a specialist obstetrician and gynecologist in Dubai with extensive experience in treating pregnant woman and ensuring a healthy pregnancy.

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