Multiple micronutrients in pregnancy and lactation: an overview

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Maternal and Child Health
• Public Health Nutrition

Background:

• Maternal micronutrient status is often viewed in isolation across the periconceptional, pregnancy, and lactation periods.
• Focus on single micronutrients (e.g., iron, folate) overlooks simultaneous deficiencies common in poor diets.
• Simultaneous deficiencies in B vitamins, antioxidants, vitamin D, and iodine can negatively impact pregnancy outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the continuum of maternal micronutrient status from conception through lactation.
• To emphasize the importance of addressing multiple, simultaneous micronutrient deficiencies during pregnancy and lactation.
• To underscore the need for optimal micronutrient supplementation strategies during these critical periods.

Main Methods:

• This is an overview and synthesis of existing research and public health perspectives.
• It analyzes the impact of maternal micronutrient status on maternal, fetal, and infant health.
• It reviews the role of specific micronutrients (e.g., iron, vitamin B-12, other B vitamins, vitamin A, vitamin D, iodine, selenium, antioxidants) in pregnancy and lactation.

Main Results:

• Maternal status at conception significantly influences maternal, fetal, and infant health until weaning.
• Multiple micronutrient deficiencies, not just iron and folate, contribute to poor pregnancy outcomes.
• Maternal intake of several micronutrients directly affects their concentration in breast milk, impacting infant stores.

Conclusions:

• Viewing maternal micronutrient status as a continuum is essential for effective public health strategies.
• Addressing multiple concurrent deficiencies and ensuring adequate intake through diet and supplementation is critical.
• Further research is needed on optimal micronutrient supplement formulations for pregnant and lactating women.