Protein, Vitamins & Key Nutrients

Choline importance and prenatal vitamins: what to look for

Choline importance and prenatal vitamins: what to look for

What choline does in pregnancy Choline is an essential nutrient, often grouped with B vitamins because of its role in one-carbon metabolism, although it is not technically a vitamin. In pregnancy, demand rises because choline is needed for rapidly dividing fetal and placental tissues. It contributes to phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, important structural components of cell […]

Omega-3 fatty acids and DHA supplements during pregnancy

Omega-3 fatty acids and DHA supplements during pregnancy

What omega-3 fatty acids are Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats that the body uses in cell membranes, immune signaling, vascular biology, and neurologic tissues. The three omega-3s most often discussed in nutrition are alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). ALA is considered essential because humans cannot synthesize it and must […]

Calcium and vitamin D intake for pregnancy health

Calcium and vitamin D intake for pregnancy health

Why calcium and vitamin D matter in pregnancy Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is essential for bone structure, muscle contraction, nerve conduction, blood clotting, and intracellular signaling. During pregnancy, calcium transfer to the fetus increases, particularly in the third trimester when fetal skeletal mineralization is most active. Maternal physiology adapts […]

Folic acid and iron requirements during pregnancy

Folic acid and iron requirements during pregnancy

Why folic acid matters before and during pregnancy Folate is a B vitamin needed for DNA synthesis, cell division, and red blood cell production. In pregnancy, these functions become especially important because the embryo, placenta, uterus, and maternal blood volume are all growing rapidly. Folic acid is the synthetic form used in most supplements and […]

Protein intake during pregnancy: how much is needed

Protein intake during pregnancy: how much is needed

Why protein matters in pregnancy Protein provides amino acids, which are required for maternal tissue expansion and fetal growth. During pregnancy, the body uses amino acids to build and remodel tissues, support enzymes and hormones, maintain immune function, and contribute to the placenta, uterus, breasts, and increased circulating blood proteins. Fetal growth depends on a […]