The changes that occur in a woman's body throughout pregnancy very often cause a lack of a number of vitamins. But it is precisely a sufficient amount of certain vitamins in different trimesters of pregnancy that ensures the proper development of the fetus and improves the well-being of a woman. Last time, we already talked about which vitamins a woman needs most in the first trimester of pregnancy. Today, the editors of Estet-portal continue to acquaint you with the vitamin diet that a woman needs in the second trimester of pregnancy.
What vitamins and microelements are needed
In the second trimester of pregnancy, the expectant mother most of all needs such vitamins and microelements as:
- B vitamins;
- calcium;
- iodine;
- iron.
In addition, it is often advised to also maintain vitamin E and folic acid levels, which must be monitored from the first trimester.
B vitamins for pregnant women
There are a number of B vitamins. Of all the variety, a woman in the second trimester of pregnancy needs vitamins B6 and B12 most of all.
What do you need
Vitamin B6 is essential for normal protein absorption. It is worth noting that it is involved in the formation and development of the brain, nerve cells and red blood cells.
Vitamin B12 is also involved in the development of the nervous system and red blood cells. In addition, vitamin B12 deficiency in a pregnant woman in the second trimester can lead to the production of amino acids that can cause pregnancy complications. Therefore, it is very important to constantly monitor its level.
Where to find
Vitamin B6 is synthesized in the intestinal microflora. But at the same time, it is better to supplement your diet with foods that contain it:
1. Vegetables:
- potatoes;
- carrots;
- spinach;
- white and cauliflower;
- tomatoes;
- legumes.
2. Fruits, berries and nuts:
- oranges;
- lemons;
- strawberry;
- cherries;
- walnuts;
- hazelnuts.
3. Meat, fish and seafood.
4. Dairy products and eggs.
Vitamin B12 is found exclusively in animal products. such as:
- liver;
- eggs (yolk);
- fermented milk products.
Therefore, pregnant women who do not consume these products should definitely consult a doctor so that he can prescribe a pharmacy form of vitamin B12.
Calcium for Pregnancy
What do you need
Calcium during pregnancy is necessary for the formation of the skeleton, kidneys and endocrine system of the fetus. For a future mother, calcium is an indispensable assistant in strengthening the endocrine system, which suffers greatly from changes in hormonal levels.
Where to find
Dairy and sour-milk products contain the most calcium. But it is worth noting that milk fats inhibit its absorption. Therefore, it is worth giving preference to low-fat, but not fat-free, products.
Among plant foods, the most calcium contains:
- white cabbage;
- lettuce;
- kohlrabi;
- broccoli.
But the amount of consumption of chocolate, coffee and carbonated drinks is better to reduce, as they interfere with the absorption of calcium. It is worth noting that the body is not able to get the necessary dose of calcium from food. Therefore, often additionally, the doctor prescribes drugs in which it is contained.
Iron for pregnancy
What do you need
Iron is one of the most important trace elements that are necessary for the human body. It prevents the occurrence of anemia, and also takes an active part in the synthesis of hemoglobin.
Iron deficiency in pregnant women can lead to a decrease in uterine tone, which, in turn, can provoke a miscarriage. Therefore, to eliminate such risks, an analysis is carried out and, with a low level of iron, an increased daily rate is prescribed.
Where to find
Iron is found in many foods, both animal and vegetable. However, it is only partially absorbed. Iron is best absorbed from the following foods:
- meat (digestible up to 22%);
- fish (up to 11%);
- cereals and bread (up to 5%);
- eggs (up to 3%).
Also found in:
- legumes;
- pumpkin seeds;
- sesame;
- thyme;
- leaf lettuce;
- parsley.
It is worth noting that iron is absorbed much better from plant foods when combined with animals. In addition, some trace elements, including tannins, affect the absorption of iron. So it is better to refuse to drink tea or coffee with food. It is better to replace them with natural juices with a high content of vitamin C, which, on the contrary, contributes to its absorption.
Iodine for Pregnancy
What do you need
For the unborn child, iodine is extremely important, as it is directly involved in the formation of his skeleton and mental development. Scientists have proven that with iodine deficiency in a woman in labor, children subsequently lag behind in development.
For a pregnant woman, iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of metabolism. It is worth remembering that problems with the thyroid gland can serve as a contraindication for iodine intake. Therefore, in such cases, it is necessary to consult an endocrinologist.
Where to find
Most of all iodine, of course, is found in products of marine origin. Therefore, to replenish this microelement in the body, it is necessary to include in the diet:
- sea fish and seafood;
- algae (norias, seaweed, etc.);
- sea salt;
- dried figs.
It is worth remembering that an excess of iodine in the body entails serious consequences, especially for pregnant women. Therefore, it is worth taking tests and consulting with a doctor regarding the daily dose of this element.
Finally, I would like to remind you that vitamin preparations should be prescribed only by the doctor who is taking care of you throughout pregnancy. This is due to the fact that the dosage of certain vitamins and trace elements is prescribed individually. The editors of the Estet-portal only acquaint you with the products that contain these vitamins and their impact on you and on the development of the unborn child.
Source Estet-portal.com
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