Vitamin A and Related Compounds in the Prenatal and Postnatal States: A MaternalNeonate Focused Review

Abstract

Background: It is generally accepted that vitamin A is critical to fetal and infant development. However, vitamin A has many related compounds, including lutein, carotenes, and lycopene, and recent evidence has shown they may also be important in maternal-infant health. Much less is known about the impact of vitamin A related compounds on maternal and newborn outcomes. Methods: The following article presents a review of maternal vitamin A and related compounds on the fetus and newborn, particularly in the brain and retina. Dietary intake and supplementation will be examined in their relationship to breast milk and formula levels of vitamin A and related compounds. Finally, deficiencies in developed and developing countries are discussed. Results: Vitamin A related compounds, such as lycopene, carotenes, and lutein, may impact maternal-infant outcomes independent of retinol status. High-risk groups, including preterm infants, have been shown to be particularly susceptible. Studies also show that vitamin A deficiency remains a problem in developing nations and may be a concern in disadvantaged populations in developed nations. Conclusion: This review indicates a need to better understand the influence of maternal vitamin A and related compounds in order to improve interventions to maintain homeostatic levels in mothers and neonates