Nutritional supplementation during pregnancy and lactation

Abstract

Objective: Analyze scientific evidence on nutritional supplementation during pregnancy and lactation. Bibliographical review: Nutritional deficiencies can occur during pregnancy due to the increased needs of the mother and the development of the fetus, making it necessary for pregnant women to have adequate nutrition and a healthy diet. During lactation, nutritional demands also increase. However, vulnerable situations may require supplementation beyond the already established standard of iron and folic acid. Vitamin D, vitamin A, iodine, fatty acids and probiotics are examples, explored in this study, that can be considered as supplements in specific situations, as they can bring great benefits in this care context. Final considerations: The maternal diet from the preconception period to lactation is essential in the pregnancy-puerperal cycle to provide the nutritional needs of the mother-baby binomial. The study recommends a personalized approach to deficiencies and supplementation during pregnancy and lactation. There is a need for more research to clarify safe doses of supplementation, as many studies have shown benefits, however, without establishing precise indications of dose and period. The study concludes the importance of interprofessional work, in which the role of nurses, nutritionists and doctors are crucial in the investigation and treatment of nutritional deficiencies.