Wednesday, November 28, 2007 Important nutrients during pregnancy By Dr. Elizabeth Bagares-Poyogao Pediacosset
LET me contribute a thing or two to expectant mothers out there that are so much excited to see their little one. Most of us are aware of the importance of nutrient supplementation during pregnancy. Aside from iron supplements, there are other nutrients that need to be taken into consideration even before we get pregnant and when we are expecting a baby.
* (Folic Acid) - It is recommended that women of childbearing age take 400 ug of folic acid daily. This will prevent neural tube defects such as anencephaly or absence of brain tissue and a defect called spina bifida.
* (Iodine) - It is recommended that 150 ug/day of iodine be taken before and during pregnancy. This will prevent mental retardation in your baby.
* (Zinc) - This nutrient is not only for children but also to expectant mothers as well. This prevents major physical defects and reduced resistance against infection of your future babies.
* (Iron) - This nutrient is needed mainly for proper brain development. This prevents mental and physical defects. It is recommended that 30 mg per day of iron be taken.
* (Calcium) - This essential nutrient not only is good for the bone but also decreases the risk of early delivery of your baby. Aside from capsule preparations, you may get calcium from milk and foods rich in calcium.
* (LC-PUFAs) - These are new discoveries as important components of the brain and the cells in our bodies. These promote good brain development and eventually a healthy, sound mind and body. 100-300 mg daily of this nutrient is recommended. Ask your doctor about it.
* (Probiotics) - These are supplements of good bacteria, which are commonly used in cases such as LBM or any gastrointestinal-related defects. It boosts immune system of your baby. These probiotics are available in the market in capsule-form or liquid-gel form. Milk formulas have also been incorporated with probiotics.
These are just few of the most important nutrients needed by expectant mothers and women of childbearing age. But genes do play a role in preventing those mental and motor defects in you baby. Both genes and environment play an important role to produce a healthy baby. But the greatest of them all is prayer. There is no substitute to bring a healthy baby in this world by mere prayer. It is actually God who decides what the future holds for you and your baby.
(Dr. Betty Bagares-Poyogao is based in Oro Doctors General Hospital, St. Ignatius Medical Clinic, and JR Borja General Hospital. For your questions, comments, and suggestions email me at betbags@yahoo.com.)
