COPPER AND PREGNANCY: AN ESSENTIAL TRACE PRENATAL MINERAL FOR MOMS-TO-BE

Copper during pregnancy is a crucial trace mineral in human physiological processes, as it supports the healthy growth and development of the foetus and meets the nutritional needs of the expecting mother. Copper in pregnancy is a crucial nutrient that is required more during pregnancy and lactation.

The copper pregnancy supplement assists in maintaining the sound health of the body and acuity of the brain by supporting energy production, tissue repair and tissue building during pregnancy.

HERE ARE SOME KEY POINTS ABOUT THE IMPORTANCE COPPER DURING PREGNANCY:

1. Foetal Development: In pregnancy, copper is necessary for the proper development of the foetus. This development includes the cardiovascular system, skeletal system (bones) and nervous system. Collagen and elastin synthesis is very crucial for the development of blood vessels, bones and connective tissue, it also includes copper.
2. Iron Absorption: Copper during pregnancy supports iron absorption, an important mineral within the body. During pregnancy, the iron requirement increases which leads to the increased formation of red blood cells (RBCs) and prevents anaemia in the mother. Copper supplements for pregnancy help maximise the iron absorption taken through diet, ensuring mother and child receive adequate oxygen supply.
3. Immune System Support: Copper is known to have antimicrobial properties. Copper increases the immune system which is vital during pregnancy. It helps to boost the immune system, which is important during pregnancy because the immune system changes to protect the mother and baby from infections.
4. Connective Tissue Formation: The main functions of copper in synthesising connective tissue including collagen and elastin, acting as co-factors to these enzymes. Therefore, it revitalizes skin and improves blood vessels and bones for the better overall health of the mother and the unborn child.
5. Brain Development: Copper in the prenatal tablet is essential for the development of the brain in the unborn child. It is a component of myelin, a substance that acts as an insulator of nerve cells and allows the impulses to be transmitted in the nerve. Sufficient intake of copper is necessary for the development of a baby’s brain and nervous system.

DEFICIENCY OF COPPER DURING PREGNANCY

Copper deficiency during pregnancy could lead to several complications for the mother and foetus. This increases the risk of anaemia because copper helps in iron absorption and utilization, which is essential for the formation of red blood cells (RBCs).

Lack of copper in pregnancy can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath, impacting the mother’s well-being. Copper deficiency can also hinder the neurological development of the developing foetus, resulting in learning difficulties and developmental delays.

HOW TO TREAT DEFICIENCY OF COPPER IN PREGNANCY?

Copper during pregnancy can help restore low serum copper levels, preventing symptoms associated with deficiency, once the body’s required amount is achieved. The development of critical tissues in foetuses, including the brain, the circulatory system, and bones, depends on copper, during pregnancy.

Copper supplements during pregnancy also improve iron metabolism, therefore, promoting increased absorption of iron taken through diet. Copper also plays a vital role in improving the metabolism of iron, thereby preventing iron-deficiency anaemia.

Pregnancy promotes the immunity of the pregnant woman’s body to fight infections and diseases that can harm the mother and growing baby. Additionally, copper during pregnancy prevents cells from oxidated stress by acting as an antioxidant.

During pregnancy, oxidative stress may lead to harmful consequences for the mother and foetus. Thus, the antioxidant activity of copper is important during pregnancy when maternal and foetal health are susceptible to damage by oxidative stress.

In many cases, copper in prenatal vitamins is prescribed by doctors to avoid excess intake and potential toxicity.

ROLE OF COPPER IN PRENATAL VITAMINS

Copper supplements in pregnancy are crucial in maintaining the overall health and well-being of the mother and the developing baby. The use of copper in pregnancy helps in the formation of RBCs. They keep bones and nerves healthy and ensure proper immune function.

Copper during pregnancy supports the baby’s neurological development and formation of collective tissues and bones. Therefore, copper demand increases during pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins containing copper help to bridge the nutritional gap and avert deficiencies, minimising the chances of pregnancy complications like anaemia and delay in the growth of the baby.

However, pregnant women must consult their doctors before starting any copper supplements pregnancy, as over-intake of copper can lead to health issues. Proper guidance ensures the right dosage, promoting a healthy pregnancy and optimal foetal growth.

TRIMACARE PRENATAL VITAMINS – BEST COPPER SUPPLEMENT DURING PREGNANCY

The Multi-Micronutrients (MMN) or IFC (Iron, Folate & Calcium) paradigm, which is advised by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), is the foundation for the Trimacare multivitamin tablet for women. Trimacare women’s prenatal vitamins contain all the nutrients needed to support the baby’s long-term and short-term physical and mental development. Trimacare prenatal tablets support the health of the mother during pregnancy, aid in the early healing process, and prevent the onset of diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis in the future. 

FAQS

1. Why is copper important during pregnancy?

Copper is an important mineral with numerous benefits in the maternal body during pregnancy. It is used in the formation and growth of the nervous system and the organs, bones, and tissues of the baby.

2. How much copper do pregnant women need?

Pregnant women, in general, require about one milligram of copper per day to support the normal growth and development of the foetus and maintain their own health.

3. Name some sources of copper in the diet of pregnant women

Nuts, seeds, whole grains, legumes, shellfish, organ meats, and dark leafy greens like spinach and kale can all provide pregnant women with copper.

4. How can copper deficiency impact pregnancy?

Yes, copper deficiency can impact pregnancy in many ways. It may lead to numerous complications such as premature childbirth and low birth weight of the child, affect the growth of the unborn child, and increase the chances of birth defects.

5. Does excessive consumption of copper in pregnancy pose a risk?

Excessive intake during pregnancy may lead to copper toxicity, which can be manifested through symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and liver damage. Pregnant women must consume copper at the recommended levels in a balanced manner.

6. Does excessive consumption of copper in pregnancy pose a risk?

Excessive intake during pregnancy may lead to copper toxicity, which can be manifested through symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and liver damage. Pregnant women must consume copper at the recommended levels in a balanced manner.