Pregnancy
Optimal nutrition during pregnancy can influence the health of baby and mother in many ways, including the long term health of the child.
There are increased demands for specific nutrients at different stages of pregnancy that can support the health of both baby and mother, and help to prevent a number of potential negative outcomes.
Key Facts
- Certain supplements such as folate are recommended for all but there are also specific supplements that may be important for you depending on your own diet and requirements
- Testing for deficiencies can help address the increased nutritional demands of pregnancy
- If you have certain familial risks or are pregnant over the age of 40, there may be nutritional support to reduce risks associated with this
- Thyroid conditions may be well supported by medication but after 16 weeks, the baby will make its own thyroid hormone and has specific nutritional demands
- Nutritional support in the third trimester can reduce the risk of conditions associated with the birth such pre-eclampsia, pre-term labour and the initial health of the newborn
- Nutritional support in pregnancy how been shown to support the brain health and development of the child, reaching their milestones as they grow
Best Test Options
Patient Story
History
Michelle attended our clinic for support during her pregnancy. She was suffering from fatigue, nausea and restless legs. She had a thyroid condition which had been well controlled by medication prior to pregnancy.
Tests
A Functional Nutritional Profile with iodine was carried out in the first trimester to identify any existing deficiencies, which could be rectified before being exacerbated by the demands of the progressing pregnancy.
Michelle had low iodine levels which should be carefully managed so as not to alter her thyroid function early in the pregnancy.
Michelle also had low vitamin D, and with a due date in Spring, she would be pregnant over the winter months.
Plan
Michelle adapted her eating habits to minimise nausea and support her energy during the day. A personalised supplement protocol safe for pregnancy was devised based on Michelle’s test results and thyroid condition.
Michelle was advised on cautious and conservative iodine restoration. Iodine and other minerals are required for baby’s thyroid health beyond 16 weeks when they need to make their own thyroid hormone, but excess supplementation may alter the mother’s medication requirements which would not be desired early in a pregnancy.
Outcome
Michelle had appointments throughout her pregnancy as each trimester brought changes and different needs. Before the birth, Michelle had advice on post-partum health including the nutritional demands of breastfeeding and of course how to manage her own nutritional needs along with baby during the first weeks.
“Delighted to let you know that I had a baby boy and all went really well! Thanks so much for all your support”
