Abstract

MICRONUTRIENTS DEFICIENCY: IMPACT ON PREGNANCY

Vimal Susan Eapen*, Aleena Paul, Sithara T. R. and A. R. Shabaraya

ABSTRACT

Pregnancy is associated with more demands on micronutrients due to maternal physiological changes and metabolic needs of the growing fetus. Nutritional deficiency in mother can adversely elevate the risk of morbidity and mortality of both fetus and mother. Good nutritional requirement during pregnancy is important for the growth and development of fetus. The recommended daily intake of micronutrients is required to meet the optimum dosing level. Underdosing of nutrition intake can lead to complications such as low birth weight, birth defects, preterm delivery, stillbirths, abortions, developmental delay, mental retardation etc and overdosing leads to teratogenecity. Some of the reasons for malabsorption include negligence, lack of knowledge, poor economic status and some traditional practices of diet. Demand for nutrients is increased during second and third trimester periods. The article aims to support the general practitioners in evaluating the need of dietary requirements in nutrition deficient individuals and to provide information to both non pregnant and pregnant women regarding the complications associated with the nutritional deficiency.

Keywords: Deficiency, Micronutrients, Nutrition, Pregnancy, Teratogenecity.