What is the Importance of Vitamin D During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a cute phase and the feelings are surreal. Often during the initial days newly expected mothers are anxious about if they are doing things right or not. Because during pregnancy a woman is not only accountable for her own well-being but also for her unborn baby's. Her lifestyle choices, eating habits and general health, all of a sudden, gain immense importance and she must make the right choices for a healthy pregnancy. The right amount of calcium, vitamins and minerals play a vital role in supporting the body during pregnancy.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of one particularly important vitamin, that is Vitamin D or the sunshine vitamin. Obtaining an adequate level of Vitamin D meets the progress of the pregnant woman and the fetus.    

Importance of Vitamin D During Pregnancy

Vitamin D helps in absorbing calcium and regulating the amount of phosphate in the body. These nutrients combined promote the healthy growth of bones, teeth, and muscles. Vitamin D during pregnancy also helps in the development of the baby's bones, teeth, kidneys, heart and nervous system. You can acquire Vitamin D directly from sunlight whenever you're outside. Else, going for supplements or food containing Vitamin D is also favourable. The deficiency of the vitamin may show adverse effects during the prenatal period. 

Benefits of Vitamin D During Pregnancy

Let us understand some of the most important benefits of Vitamin D during pregnancy:

1. Supports foetal development

Vitamin D during pregnancy helps in the development of the baby's bones, teeth, kidneys, heart and nervous system.

2. Helps in reducing pregnancy complications

In the prenatal period, vitamin D is considered essential in reducing the issue of pre-eclampsia, low birth weight, and pre-term birth complications.

3. Combats other health issues

Vitamin D fights other health issues such as blood pressure and balancing the blood sugar levels in c-section.

4. Helps in calcium absorption

Calcium has numerous benefits such as bone health, weight management, diabetes and cancer prevention etc. and Vitamin D helps the body to absorb it.

Healthy Sources of Vitamin D During Pregnancy

Here are some foods rich in Vitamin D that you can consume during pregnancy:

• Eggs (well-cooked)
• Fish oil (sardines, tuna, and salmon)
• Beef liver
• Mushrooms
• Cheese
• Fortified breakfast cereals
• Yogurt
• Calcium-fortified orange juice

Adding foods rich in vitamin D during pregnancy is an excellent choice. Studies say exposure to sunlight in the early hours for 10 to 15 mins can also give ample benefits of Vitamin D during pregnancy.

How Much Vitamin D Do You Need During Pregnancy?

Doctors suggest 10-15 micrograms of vitamin D for adults, during pregnancy, and for breastfeeding mothers. However, the exact consumption of Vitamin D during pregnancy will depend on the existing levels of Vitamin D in your body and the levels you need. You can request your practitioner for a simple blood test to help identify if you have a Vitamin D deficiency. It's best to take your prenatal supplements and a Vitamin D supplement if your doctor recommends it. Besides that, you should soak in sunlight regularly and consume foods rich in Vitamin D during pregnancy.

When Do You Need Extra Vitamin D During Pregnancy?

Some pregnant women may need more Vitamin D during pregnancy than others. It is because you may be at a higher risk of Vitamin D deficiency, this can happen in the following situations:

• if you rarely go outside in the Sun
• always keep your skin covered
• wear a high-factor sunblock
• have a darker skin
• have a BMI greater than 30

If you belong to any of the above groups and have been diagnosed with a Vitamin D deficiency, taking a Vitamin D supplement is essential for you.

Closing Thoughts

Motherhood is a huge responsibility. Pregnancy requires absolute love and care. The proper growth of the fetus depends on the right nutrition consumed by the mother every day. Therefore, following a balanced and nutritious diet is recommended.