How to Take Vitamin D During Pregnancy and Why It’s Crucial for You and Your Baby?

Vitamin D is known to be a vital component for the development of bones and for facilitating a healthy immune system function. But did you know that it may also be vital for a healthy pregnancy? It might promote a healthy muscle and nervous system function in both the mother and child.

The deficiency of Vitamin D during pregnancy could result in bone abnormalities in the newborn child, also known as rickets. The deficiency of Vitamin D for pregnant women may also lead to disorders in the baby, such as: -

• skeletal problems,
• tooth enamel defects,
• attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

In case of an expecting mom, the lack of vitamin D has been found to be associated with:-

• increased risk of pre-eclampsia
• gestational diabetes mellitus,
• preterm birth,
• Other tissue-specific conditions, such as compromised immune function, increased risk of infection, and musculoskeletal weakness.

How Much Vitamin D -Does a Pregnant Woman Need?

According to the recommended daily allowance (RDA), a pregnant woman may need around 15 micrograms (600 IU) of vitamin D daily. Although there is certain emerging research that suggest a significantly higher dose for improved benefits - especially in women with documented deficiency. But it is important to consult your doctor as an excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia (high calcium in the blood), kidney stones, and other issues.

What are the Sources of Vitamin D?

Vitamin D can be derived from various sources, such as:-

Sunlight: About 15 to 30 minutes of exposure to sunlight on the face, arms, and legs a few times a week triggers natural vitamin D production in the skin. However, this duration might differ depending on the skin tone (darker skin requires longer exposure), season (production is lower in winter months), geographic location and pollution levels, and Time of day (midday sun is most effective).

Diet: Another source is the consumption of foods rich in vitamin D, for example

• Fatty fish such as salmon and sardines
• Egg yolks,
• Fortified milk and cereal,
• Certain mushrooms (especially those exposed to UV light).

Although these foods contribute to vitamin D intake, the amount they provide is often not enough to meet daily requirements on their own.

Supplements: Vitamin D supplements are consumed by a huge population of people. This is because sunlight and diet are insufficient. So, to meet the adequate needs of Vitamin D while pregnant, doctors recommend prenatal vitamins.

How to Take Vitamin D in Pregnancy?

• You may start by intaking a prenatal vitamin daily after the consultation with a healthcare provider.
• You may combine vitamin D with a balanced intake of calcium for optimal bone health.
• You may take vitamin D supplements with the largest meal of the day, preferably with the one containing fat.
• You must also ensure a safe exposure to sunlight, but do not rely only on sun exposure.

When and For How Long Should You Take a Vitamin D Supplement During Pregnancy?

You should start taking Vitamin D supplement as soon as you hear the good news and you should continue with it throughout the journey. Newborn babies would also need vitamin D supplement since breast milk contains only a small amount of vitamin D.

If you are categorized as being at high risk of developing vitamin D deficiency, it is essential to undergo a blood test to assess your vitamin D levels. If the levels are found to be lower, you should start taking the supplements as directed by your doctor.

Some Tips to Remember: -

• You must check your prenatal vitamin label for a sufficient dose of vitamin D. 
• You must opt for the prescribed amount of calcium tablets for pregnancy as suggested by the doctor.

Conclusion:

The deficiency of Vitamin D is common during pregnancy, especially in women who are vegetarians and have limited exposure to sunlight. Additionally, the Vitamin D levels of a newborn baby largely depend on the status of vitamin D levels of the mother. Therefore, it is essential to ensure optimal vitamin D during pregnancy. It may also help to build your baby’s bones, teeth, and immune system, and at the same time support your own health.

Now, if you have been considering getting the right prenatal vitamin that includes vitamin D and all the essential vitamins, you must switch to Trimacare. It is a trimester-specific pregnancy nutritional supplement that provides for over 20 essential micronutrients, including Iron, Folate, and Calcium. However, you must talk to your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.

Give your pregnancy a healthy start with the right nutritional supplement!