Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12 (unspecified)
For the health condition: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin B12 is scientifically supported for use during pregnancy, chiefly to prevent deficiency and its associated risks to both mother and fetus. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is an essential water-soluble vitamin required for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neurological function. During pregnancy, the body’s demand for B12 increases due to fetal growth and development, especially for neurological and cognitive development. Numerous studies and clinical guidelines (including those from the CDC, WHO, and ACOG) recommend monitoring and maintaining adequate B12 levels throughout pregnancy.

B12 deficiency in pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of neural tube defects, preterm birth, low birth weight, and developmental delays in infants. The risk of deficiency is higher among women with limited dietary intake of animal products (e.g., vegetarians, vegans), malabsorption syndromes, or certain genetic mutations. Clinical trials and observational studies have demonstrated that supplementation effectively raises maternal and neonatal B12 levels and reduces risks associated with deficiency. B12 is often included in prenatal vitamins for these reasons. While B12 alone is not used to treat pregnancy-specific conditions, its supplementation is a standard preventive measure to ensure healthy pregnancy outcomes.

Overall, the use of vitamin B12 during pregnancy is well-supported by scientific evidence, and supplementation is recommended when dietary intake may be insufficient.

More about Vitamin B12 (unspecified)
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