Vitamin C and pregnancy - Pregnancy

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Vitamin C and pregnancy

During pregnancy it is important to have all of the right nutrients to keep you and your baby healthy. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid,  is a water-soluble vitamin. Your body uses vitamin C for healing wounds, repairing tissue, growing and repairing bones, and creating healthy skin. Like vitamin A, vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, fighting infections and protecting cells.

Sources of vitamin C:

  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Broccoli
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Oranges
  • Kiwi fruit

How much vitamin C do I need?

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is:

  • Mothers – 85 mg
  • Mothers breastfeeding – 120 mg
  • Mothers under 20 – 80 mg
  • Mothers under 20- 115 mg

Vitamin C cannot be stored in the body, so it is an essential vitamin for your daily diet. If necessary, supplements are available for additional vitamin C intake, but you must first consult with your doctor before taking  them. (Excessive intake can cause harm.)

Vitamin C deficiency

Although it is rare, vitamin C deficiency can occur if an insufficient dose of between 0-10 mg per day is taken for several consecutive weeks.  Scurvy is a medical condition that results from vitamin C deficiency.

Find out more at vitamins during pregnancy.

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