Vitamin А in pregnancy and breast feeding: a current view on the problem

Abstract

For the normal development of pregnancy, a sufficient amount of vitamin A is required. Retinol is involved in the formation of the skeleton of the fetus, provides renewal of epithelial cells of the skin and mucous membranes, is necessary for the growth and development of cells, so that the normalization of vitamin A levels in the body helps reduce the risk of birth defects. Vitamin A deficiency at the stage of intrauterine development creates the prerequisites for the formation of insulin resistance, sensorineural hearing loss, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, disorders of the structure and function of the kidneys in the postnatal period. Vitamin A is involved in many metabolic processes, having an anabolic effect, and its deficiency can lead to the development of fetal malnutrition. No increase in the risk of birth defects caused by vitamin A has been observed at doses below 3,000 mcg/day (10,000 IU/day) of this micronutrient. Postpartum supplementation of vitamin A-rich foods or supplemental sources of vitamin A to the mother’s diet may improve breast milk composition and the infant’s vitamin A stores. Vitamin A affects the metabolism of lipids, iron; its metabolism, in turn, depends on the availability of protein, zinc and other substances. The absorption of vitamin A requires the presence of fats, vitamin E and proteins. With a lack of any of these components, the absorption of vitamin A is reduced, even if the food is enriched with it.