Optimisation of Micronutrient Supplementation During Pregnancy: Interactions Between Bioactive Compounds, Their...

The intake of vitamins and minerals has a significant impact on the health of both the expectant mother and the newborn. During gestation, the demand for micronutrients increases; therefore, modifying dietary habits and selecting foods that ensure adequate (or sufficient) intake can be challenging. Although food supplements contain substances with beneficial physiological effects and their use can improve micronutrient intake, these products cannot replace proper nutrition. Due to modern nutritional habits, intake of key micronutrients is often inadequate, and their deficiencies are known to correlate with significant clinical outcomes during pregnancy. To reduce these deficiencies, several single- and multi-component dietary supplements have been developed. This review aims to present the health effects of the bioactive compounds found in these products and to discuss interactions (i.e., synergistic, additive, and antagonistic effects) between the micronutrients that may alter their bioefficiency. In addition, with a focus on future directions, this review draws attention to the need for a reassessment of current nutritional guidelines and recommendations, the development of new approaches, and emphasises the importance of establishing harmonised amounts of vitamins and minerals used in dietary supplements for pregnant women.