Article by Dr. Nguyen Thi Kim Dung – Obstetrics &; Gynecology Department – Share99 Times City International Health Hub
Vitamin E functions as an antioxidant, helping to protect the body's cells from damage by harmful free radicals (reapplied oxygen molecules). Vitamin E is soluble in fat, which means that the human body has reserves of Vitamin E and uses it as needed, especially with pregnant women.
1. Do vitamin E supplements be needed before pregnancy?
Good physical condition will play an important role in a woman's fertility, therefore the addition of certain vitamins can support the preparation of a woman's pregnancy better.
In women, vitamin E can increase the mucus of the uterus. In men, vitamin E helps sperm live longer, so taking vitamin E supplements before pregnancy increases the chances of conception.
Vitamin E supplements can be added 3 months before pregnancy and the period from the 2nd, 3rd month of pregnancy when the fetus is finishing neurologically.
However, current evidence suggests that vitamin E supplementation is likely to have little effect on the outcome of pregnancy and that mothers including still pregnancy, pre-production,low birth weight and may in fact increase the risk of premature birth. Therefore, WHO believes that vitamin E supplements are NOT RECOMMENDED for pregnant women for the purpose of improving the outcome of mothers and babies.
2. How to take vitamin E supplements for women preparing for pregnancy?
There are 2 ways to take vitamin E supplements:
- Through daily food and oral vitamin E supplements. Some foods rich in vitamin E that women preparing for pregnancy can use such as: greens, sweet potatoes, tofu, broccoli, avocado, nuts, seafood,..
- Take Vitamin E tablets: The recommended dose for women preparing for pregnancy is 22 – 30 mg/day (1mg = 15 UI) because vitamin E in the head form is easily soluble in oil so vitamin E should be taken during or after meals.
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3. Note when taking vitamin E supplements to ensure pregnancy safety
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration FDA, at the usual recommended dose, vitamin E is quite safe during pregnancy. The recommended dose of vitamin E during pregnancy is 22 – 30 mg daily (1mg = 15 UI) taken after meals.
In high doses, Vitamin E is recommended to be used only during pregnancy when the benefits are higher than the risk. Some trials on tissues and animals report that the use of high-dose vitamin E (≥ 400 UI/day) reduces or even prevents the harmful effects of ethanol and mellitus on the fetus, however taking excessive doses can cause stroke
4. Side effects of taking vitamin E
Fatigue, weakness, blood clot disorders, immunosuppressive, dermatitis , creatinineuria, changes in thyroid function, increased excretion of androgens in the urine …
Vitamin E is one of the essential vitamins for the body. The addition of vitamin E is necessary, especially for pregnant women and, more importantly, women who are rarely late. However, which dosage and vitamin E supplements to follow (diet or tablets) should be fully consulted by a specialist.
Share99 International Health Hub has pre-pregnancy examination and consultation for both couples. Customers can schedule an examination for adequate health and nutrition advice to prepare for a healthy pregnancy.
For direct advice, please click hotline number or register online HERE. In addition, you can register for remote consultation HERE
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