Importance of Vitamin C Intake during Pregnancy

Vitamin C is one of the nutrients that are required by pregnant women. Read on to learn more about the benefits of consuming foods rich in Vitamin C during pregnancy.Vitamin C is not only your ideal solution for common cold but also it is one of the most safest and effective nutrients that are known for strengthening the immune system. Known for its significance in fighting cardio-vascular diseases, prenatal health issues, skin wrinkling and even eye infections, Vitamin C is one of nutrients advisable for expectant mothers for the benefits it offers.Also known as ascorbic acid, Vitamin C assists in tissue repair, wound healing and bone growth and most importantly in sustaining a healthy radiant skin. Acting as an anti-oxidant, Vitamin C also helps protecting an expectant mother from the cell damage and other infections. In this articleWhy Does Your Baby Require Vitamin C?The Various Food Items Containing Vitamin CHow Much Vitamin C is Really Necessary?Are Vitamin C Supplements a Good Idea?What are the Symptoms of Vitamin C Deficiency?Why Does Your Baby Require Vitamin C?Not only for the expectant mother, but Vitamin C is also important for the unborn baby. Research and scientific studies have concluded that the deficiency of Vitamin C causes impaired mental development of the baby. Vitamin C needs to be consumed daily as it assists in the making of collagen. Collagen is a structural protein in our bones, cartilage and skin. Vitamin C also helps in the absorption of iron. Therefore, the presence of Vitamin C just helps the extraction of iron from the other food items you consume more effectively.The Various Food Items Containing Vitamin CCitrus fruits have found to be abundant in Vitamin C along with leafy green vegetables and fruits. Heat can easily destroy Vitamin C present inside the food items and hence fresh fruits are advised for consumption. Cereals and orange juice also offer a feasible option for the intake of Vitamin C. Other food items include grape juice, kiwi, sliced strawberries, boiled broccoli, papaya, cabbage, raw mango, sweet potatoes, mashed potato and cherry tomatoes.How Much Vitamin C is Really Necessary?It is important to understand the amount of Vitamin C necessary for consumption for expectant mothers as exceeding the average amount can cause other issues. An expectant mother requires 85mg of Vitamin C every day. Women who are 18 or less and pregnant can sustain their body functions with 80mg of Vitamin C every day. It is important to note that an expectant mother does not need to aim for the exact amount, but cover the average efficiently.Are Vitamin C Supplements a Good Idea?Various food items provide the precise options for Vitamin C. There have been studies that have concluded that Vitamin C supplement intake can increase the risk of preterm birth. Vitamin C supplements are not necessarily the right source for your child.Premature Rupture of Membranes has been found to be reduced through the intake of Vitamin C supplements. However, one must be certain in considering their healthcare provider before reaching any conclusion. One should take such supplements during pregnancy only if they are prescribed by her doctor.What are the Symptoms of Vitamin C Deficiency?While a weak immune system, consistent fever, pain in the muscles is a clear sign of Vitamin deficiency, it should also be noted that brittle hair, gum inflammation, along with slow-healing cuts and bruises also indicate the body’s need of Vitamin C. The dryness of the skin can also be linked to the lack of Vitamin C in one’s diet.It is important for expectant mothers to eat healthy as it directly impacts their blood pressure, skin and eventually the unborn baby. The importance of Vitamin C is unparallel as it is concerned with the mental development of the baby, which is a very crucial factor for every expecting couple. While Vitamin C requirements can be easily met through juices, cereals and other numerous food items, there should be a sincere effort to avoid supplements as their effects are widely debatable. Vitamin C, without any doubt, has an important role to play during the pregnancy period, and the more natural form it is consumed in, the better results shall be.Why is it necessary to include Vitamin C rich foods in the pregnancy diet? What are the risks of Vitamin C deficiency during pregnancy? Do doctors prescribe Vitamin C supplements during pregnancy? Discuss here.