Food supplements for pregnant women - Part 2

In the second part of our "Dietary supplements for pregnant women" series, we are looking at other minerals, vitamins, trace elements and secondary plant substances that are used in some preparations today. After discussing folic acid, iodine, vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids last week, today we're looking at the benefits and drawbacks of taking additional chromium, B vitamins, magnesium and calcium during pregnancy and breastfeeding, for example.

Here's part 1

Calcium:

Your unborn child needs sufficient calcium for the optimal development of bones, brain and teeth. Calculated over the entire pregnancy, the mother must provide approx. 30 g of additional calcium, but at the same time the absorption rate from food is also increased. Those who rarely consume dairy products should take extra calcium, the rest do not need it.
The German Nutrition Society does not recommend additional intake during pregnancy. Conclusion: recommended to a limited extent

B vitamins:

Vitamin B2:

Vitamin B2 plays a significant role in the development and strengthening of the immune system due to its involvement in the formation of antibodies and haematopoiesis. The German Nutrition Society recommends an increased intake of vitamin B2 for pregnant and breastfeeding women, although this is often covered by the normal diet.
Conclusion: recommended to a limited extent

Vitamin B6:

Studies show that a vitamin B6 deficiency during pregnancy increases the risk of gestational diabetes and seizures. It is also suitable as a remedy for morning sickness. The requirement during pregnancy and breastfeeding is significantly increased, but an undersupply is rare. Conclusion: conditionally recommended

Vitamin B12:

Vitamin B12 is required for the formation of red blood cells and cells in general. The need for vitamin B12 is significantly increased during pregnancy and breastfeeding. To make matters worse, some foods containing vitamin B12 must be removed from the diet during pregnancy.
Vegetarians in particular should take additional B12.
Conclusion: Recommended

Chromium:

Almost 5% of all pregnant women develop diabetes during the course of their pregnancy.
The cause of this lies in the release of pregnancy hormones, which lead to increased insulin resistance. This mechanism is very similar to that of type 2 diabetes. Scientific studies show that chromium can increase the insulin sensitivity of cells in type 2 diabetes and counteract diabetes.
Conclusion: worth a try.

Manganese:

Often used, but with no additional benefit during pregnancy according to current knowledge. As this trace element has not been sufficiently researched anyway, the following applies: Hands off.

Magnesium:

Due to the placenta growing during pregnancy and the child's bone growth, pregnant women have an increased need for magnesium. Furthermore, the hormonal changes during pregnancy lead to increased excretion via the urine. Deficiency symptoms can occur in the form of tiredness, morning sickness, premature labour and high blood pressure. It is recommended to increase your magnesium intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding, although this is normally covered by your normal diet. Conclusion: recommended in low doses (max. 150 mg)