Carrying a child in her tummy brings about huge changes in a woman’s body, and it’s during this period that nutrition is quite important for maternal health as well as fetal development. Among such nutrient groups that benefit in many ways during this time are antioxidants during pregnancy.
The compound that gives strong protection during pregnancy is due to its nature and has useful qualities in warding off both free radicals and oxidative stress-damage impacts for negative cellular health effects. Being enlightened on what constitutes the best antioxidant to utilize when pregnant helps lead a safe, healthy journey on mother and child fronts.
Table of Contents
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is the most commonly in-demand antioxidant in a pregnant woman’s life. It will boost immunity levels in that female and provide complete protection to prevent the most commonly occurring infections of that pregnant period from entering the body. It enhances the absorption of iron levels for pregnant women; this ensures that one does not have anemia, thus reducing its risks. In addition to that, Vitamin C promotes the synthesis of collagen: it aids in healthy skin and prevention of stretch marks because the body is changing.
Antioxidants possess anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial during pregnancy. By reducing inflammation associated with oxidative stress, antioxidants during pregnancy help in controlling excessive immune responses.
Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli are some of the best foods on rich vitamin C. Even though being rich in vitamin C is beneficial for a healthy pregnancy, the mother-to-be will look the best as she acts like fuel for developing her baby.
Vitamin E
The other very active antioxidants during pregnancy include vitamin E, which is a need for pregnant women. They protect the cells from oxidative damage to ensure the development of the nervous tissues into babies. Vitamin E also provides protection for free radicals and ultraviolet rays causing damage to your skin, hence ensures healthy skin. Vitamin C with vitamin E has a perfect combination since their combination enhances to fight free radicals.
Nuts, seeds, and leafy greens such as almond, sunflower seeds, and spinach are some examples of foods that contain vitamin E. These are highly easy to incorporate into the diet of a pregnant woman.
Beta-carotene
Beta-carotene is crucial to the developing fetus. Beta-carotene is a carotenoid antioxidant, thus a pro vitamin A. Therefore, it is very significant for the pregnant woman and her fetus to remain healthy and sharp-eyed, healthy-skinned, and immune. For the fetus, beta-carotene is particularly important in the formation of organs and tissues.
Beta-carotene is an important nutrient found in many oranges, yellow, and dark green vegetables. Superior sources include carrots, sweet potatoes, and leafy spinach, which supply antioxidants and vitamins toward a healthy pregnancy.
Selenium
Selenium protects the cells against damage, which ensures that the thyroid functions properly. A trace mineral and an antioxidant, it ensures that damage to cells does not occur. It also enables the proper functioning of the thyroid, which is relevant during pregnancy because the thyroid regulates the metabolic activities and production of energy in the body. If selenium intake is adequate, then preeclampsia and preterm labor are reduced.
Antioxidants during pregnancy – Learn what antioxidants and foods are best for you during pregnancy.
Some of the richest sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, eggs, and whole grains. Therefore, adding these products in your diet will assure the body enough supply of selenium when pregnant.
Zinc
Zinc is one of the antioxidants during pregnancy, which contributes to cell growth, immune functions, and proper development of a fetus. This mineral assists in helping to speed up protein production and DNA synthesis; such are the building blocks for cellular and tissue development. The other use of zinc is also the repairing and healing of dead cells, thus zinc is another nutritious nutrient that enhances healthy skin, especially in pregnancies. Excellent dietary sources of zinc contain meats, beans, seeds and whole grains; including these can help furnish enough amount of zinc necessary for healthy pregnancies.
