Abstract
The study objective was to identify determinants of essential elements and vitamins intake, and microelements and vitamins concentration in blood among pregnant women from Poland. Based on the data from food frequency questionnaires and information about supplements taken (n = 1252), daily supply of six elements (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, selenium) and nine vitamins (folate, vitamins A, E, C, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12) was calculated. Zinc, copper, selenium (n = 340), vitamin A and E (n = 358) concentration was determined in blood collected during pregnancy. Most of the women did not meet the demand for essential elements and vitamins with a diet. About 94% of the respondents declared supplements use. The women with higher education, indicating leisure-time, physical activity and multiparity had a higher chance of meeting the average demand for the majority of the analyzed nutrients. On the other hand, factors such as BMI < 18.5kg/m2, a higher level of stress, and late first medical-care visit were associated with a lower chance of meeting the recommendations. Higher socio-economic status was a determinant of a higher selenium concentration in plasma (β = 3.1; 95%CI: 0.2–5.9), whereas BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, and multiparity of a higher copper concentration in plasma (β = 0.2; 95%CI: 0.03-0.4; β = 0.2; 95%CI: 0.1–0.4). Higher plasma concentration of vitamin E was noted among women older than 30 years of age comparing to those who were 30 or younger (β = 1.5; 95%CI: 0.6–2.4). Although more studies are required, especially such based on laboratory measures, our results indicate target groups for dietary interventions during pregnancy for children’s optimal health and development.
Highlights
It is well recognized that a diet is one of the most important lifestyle related factors that has influence on our health
Deficiencies of certain vitamins and minerals during pregnancy, such as vitamin E, C, B6, calcium (Ca), zinc (Zn), might play a role in pre-eclampsia, whereas iron (Fe) and Zn deficiencies are linked to impaired immunity [4]
It is underlined that Fe, folate and vitamin A deficiencies can be associated with anaemia
Summary
It is well recognized that a diet is one of the most important lifestyle related factors that has influence on our health. The diet during pregnancy should be properly balanced and provide all the necessary nutrients. Both excess and deficiency of nutrients, as well as an inadequate supply of essential elements and vitamins, can result in diseases in mother and her offspring or decreased health and developmental potential of a child [1,2,3]. It is underlined that Fe, folate and vitamin A deficiencies can be associated with anaemia. The role of adequate folates status before conception and at the beginning of pregnancy in the reduction of the risk of neural tube defects is scientifically proven [4,5]
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