Food supplements for pregnant women sell like hotcakes in parapharmacies. However, according to a study by the British journal Drug and Therapeutic Bulletin, these products based on vitamins, trace elements and plants would represent a completely unnecessary expense. In order to prevent deficiencies, it is only recommended to take one tablet of 400 micrograms of folic acid per day before and during the first three months of pregnancy as well as 10 micrograms of vitamin D per day during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Folic acid, also called vitamin B9, is prescribed to prevent spina bifida, a serious birth defect caused by a neural tube defect that occurs during the growth of the fetus. Vitamin D, for its part, plays a major role in the mineralization of the fetal skeleton because it is from the vitamin D reserves of the mother that those of the newborn are constituted. As a reminder, the so-called vitamin is found in fatty fish and dairy products, but also in the sun! The prescription is therefore even more recommended for women living in areas with little sunshine… But for a good pregnancy, nothing beats a healthy and balanced diet! So 5 fruits and vegetables a day yes, but also cereal products at each meal and dairy products 3 times a day. Meat, eggs, fish and seafood are also indicated. On the other hand, we limit fats and sugars, and we put the package on water, which we consume without moderation.
Consuming food supplements without medical advice can even be dangerous for the development of the fetus. This is particularly the case of vitamin A (retinol) or vitamin E which, if taken in high doses, can cause malformations in the unborn child. For all other elements such as iron, iodine or zinc, scientists only recommend supplementation if the deficiencies are proven. If you want to take it, talk to your doctor first.
Conclusion of this study:apart from folic acid and vitamin D and unless prescribed by a doctor, no need to spend a fortune on all the other supplements!
