What steps can you take to protect you and your baby’s health? Read on to learn about the unique state of the body’s immune system during pregnancy, and how good nutrition with the right nutrients can help ward off infections.
The Immune System During Pregnancy
As with most internal processes in the body, the immune system adapts and makes changes when you become pregnant. It reworks itself, enhancing some of its functions while suppressing others, so that it can extend its protection to the developing baby without compromising your health.
Good Nutrition for a Boost in Immunity
One of the best ways you can support your immune system and overall health is by eating healthy. Good nutrition is key to assisting the body as it tries to keep with the extra demands of pregnancy. But what are the nutrients you need for a boost in immunity? These three are on top of that list:
Zinc
A vital component in cell division and tissue growth, zinc optimizes your baby’s development. Adequate supply has also been linked to brain function which could affect future learning. The mineral supports the immune system by helping maintain a healthy amount of antibodies. According to studies, the human body requires zinc to stimulate T lymphocytes (T-Cells), helping regulate immune response against infected cells.
Zinc is an essential trace element that the body cannot naturally produce or store. That’s why regular consumption through a daily diet is a must. The recommended daily intake for pregnant women is 11 mg per day (12 mg for breastfeeding women). Good sources of the mineral include:
- Red meat such as beef
- Shellfish
- Seeds
- Legumes
- Milk
- Dark chocolate
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that effectively neutralizes cell-damaging free radicals. As with zinc, vitamin C helps the body’s immune system in several ways.
- The vitamin boosts the activity of phagocytes or immune cells that can ingest bad bacteria and other harmful particles.
- Similar to zinc, vitamin C also promotes the growth (and distribution) of lymphocytes, which increases your circulating antibodies.
- A powerful antioxidant, vitamin C protects white blood cells (phagocytes and lymphocytes) from cellular damage.
Because the body does not store vitamin C, regular consumption should help you meet the recommended daily amount of 85 mg for pregnant women. Rich sources include:
- Citrus fruits
- Berries
- Bell peppers
- Green leafy vegetables such as broccoli
Vitamin D
Although best known for its benefits for bone health, vitamin D can also help strengthen your immune system. The nutrient helps regulate immune response by helping activate T cells in eliminating foreign pathogens. Studies show that deficiency in vitamin D is associated with high susceptibility to infections such as tuberculosis, influenza and viral infections in the respiratory tract.
The recommended daily amount of vitamin D for pregnant women is 10 mcg, and good natural sources of the nutrient include
- sunlight
- fortified milk
- fatty fish such as salmon and sardines.
Supporting Immunity with Supplements
While naturally nutritious foods are the best source of vitamins and minerals to support the body’s overall health, supplements may help you meet the recommended daily amounts of these nutrients.
Let Multivitamins + Minerals + DHA + EPA (Obimin Plus) help. It helps provide vitamins and minerals you need for a strong immune system, as well as essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA for the healthy development of your baby when taken with proper diet and suitable exercise.
For more information on Multivitamins + Minerals + DHA + EPA (Obimin Plus), along with expert advice on immunity during pregnancy, consult your doctor.
ASC Reference No. U138P100721OS
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7917498/
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/diet-nutrition
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/zinc
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263176
https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/infections
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/vitamins-supplements-and-nutrition/
