New Delhi, December 22 (IANS). Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy in winter season can prove harmful for the development and health of the fetus.
Vitamin D deficiency during winter can lead to nutrient deficiencies during pregnancy, as most mothers and their babies lack adequate levels of this essential nutrient.
Sunlight is the best source of ‘Vitamin D’. However, vitamin D levels decrease in winter due to shorter days. This seasonal deficiency can be worrisome for pregnant women, as vitamin D is important for calcium absorption, which is vital for the baby’s healthy bones, teeth and immune system.
Deficiency of ‘Vitamin D’ during pregnancy can lead to complications like diabetes, preeclampsia and low birth weight babies. This deficiency can cause many problems for the child.
“Apart from Vitamin D, many nutritional elements can be deficient during pregnancy during the winter months,” said Dr Manjusha Goyal, Principal Consultant, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi.
Adding, “Poor dietary habits in pregnant women can lead to deficiency of essential nutrients like iron, folate and omega-3 fatty acids. Which are important for the development of the brain and nervous system of the child in the womb. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, while inadequate folate intake increases the risk of neural tube defects in the baby.
He added, “Omega-3 fatty acids play a vital role in supporting brain development, vision and overall development. To reduce these risks, pregnant women should prioritize a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.’
”Foods rich in vitamin D include fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, fortified dairy products and egg yolks. In this, Vitamin D supplements can be taken with the advice of doctors. Even in winter, exposure to safe sunlight through outdoor activities can help increase vitamin D levels.
“A conscious approach to prenatal nutrition, including regular prenatal checkups, can help ensure that both mother and baby get the necessary nutrients during pregnancy,” the doctor said.
–IANS
MKS/AS
