Relationship: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements to avoid during) and vitamin A

Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A
For the health condition: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements to avoid during)

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin A is an essential nutrient needed during pregnancy for the normal development of the fetus, particularly for organ formation, immune function, vision, and cellular growth. Scientific evidence supports the necessity of sufficient vitamin A intake during pregnancy, as deficiency can lead to complications such as impaired fetal growth, increased risk of maternal mortality, and night blindness. However, it is crucial to distinguish between supporting healthy pregnancy through adequate dietary intake and using high-dose vitamin A supplements as a treatment.

Although vitamin A is necessary, both deficiency and excess pose risks. High doses of preformed vitamin A (retinol) during pregnancy are teratogenic and can cause birth defects. Therefore, while scientific evidence justifies ensuring adequate vitamin A status, supplementation above recommended daily allowances is not advised unless deficiency is diagnosed and under medical supervision.

Herbal and supplement guidelines for pregnancy typically recommend avoiding high-dose vitamin A supplements, especially in the form of retinol or retinoic acid, due to the risk of toxicity. Beta-carotene, a plant-based precursor, is considered safer, as the body regulates its conversion to vitamin A.

In summary, vitamin A is scientifically validated as essential for pregnancy, but supplementation should be approached with caution. Scientific evidence supports only ensuring sufficiency, not high-dose supplementation, during pregnancy. Pregnant people should avoid excessive vitamin A supplementation and consult healthcare providers regarding appropriate intake.

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Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A
For the health condition: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements to avoid during)

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Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin AFor the health condition: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements to avoid during)

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Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A
For the health condition: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements to avoid during)