Not Enough Vitamin B12, Vitamin D and Iron: Why Pregnant Women May Not Be Eating Right
Pregnancy increases the body’s requirement for essential vitamins and minerals, yet many women continue to face deficiencies in Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and iron. According to experts like Dr Ambrish Mithal, pregnant women may be getting enough calories but not enough nutrition, leading to silent deficiencies that impact both the mother and the developing baby.
These deficiencies are rising globally and trending in health searches on Google, showing increasing awareness and concern among expecting mothers.
⭐ Why Are Pregnant Women Lacking Key Micronutrients?
1. High-Calorie, Low-Nutrient Diets
Modern food patterns include refined carbs, packaged snacks, and sugary items. These offer energy but not Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, or iron, which are essential for fetal development.
2. Rising Vitamin D Deficiency
Even in tropical countries like India, up to 70–90% of women have low Vitamin D due to:
Indoor lifestyle
Limited sunlight exposure
Sunscreen usage
Pollution blocking UV rays
Vitamin D is crucial for bone development, immunity, and preventing pregnancy complications.
3. Poor Absorption of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is found mostly in animal foods. Vegetarian diets, or diets low in dairy/eggs, make deficiency extremely common.
4. Iron Requirements Increase During Pregnancy
Iron needs nearly double to support:
Blood volume expansion
Placental growth
Preventing anemia in mother & baby
Low-iron diets or poor absorption through plant foods can lead to severe maternal anemia.
⭐ Risks of Vitamin B12, D & Iron Deficiency During Pregnancy
For the Mother:
Fatigue and weakness
Increased risk of infections
Depression or mood issues
Bone weakness (Vit D)
Severe anemia (Iron)
For the Baby:
Developmental delays
Low birth weight
Neural issues (B12 deficiency)
Poor bone formation (Vitamin D deficiency)
Preterm birth risk
⭐ How Pregnant Women Can Improve Their Nutrition
✔ Include Iron-Rich Foods
Spinach, ragi, dates, lentils
Eggs, chicken, meat (if non-veg)
✔ Boost Vitamin B12 Intake
Dairy products
Paneer, curd
Eggs & fish (non-veg options)
B12 supplements if doctor recommends
✔ Increase Vitamin D Levels
Safe sunlight exposure: 15–20 mins/day
Vitamin D fortified milk
Doctor-prescribed Vitamin D drops or tablets
✔ Regular Blood Tests
Early testing ensures deficiencies are detected and corrected in time.
⭐ FAQ Section (SEO-Driven)
1. Why are vitamin deficiencies common during pregnancy?
Because nutritional needs rise significantly while many women continue eating calorie-rich but nutrient-poor diets.
2. How much Vitamin D do pregnant women need?
Doctors typically recommend 600–800 IU/day, but supplementation depends on blood levels.
3. Can Vitamin B12 deficiency affect the baby?
Yes. It may impact brain development, neural function, and growth.
4. What are early signs of iron deficiency?
Fatigue, pale skin, dizziness, and breathlessness are common symptoms.
5. Should supplements be taken without a prescription?
No. Always consult a gynecologist before starting any vitamin or mineral supplement.
Published on : 17TH November
Published by : SARANYA
Source Credit ; Express News Service
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