Micronutrition in pregnancy ( Part 4)

Zinc  is an important catalytic component of over 200 enzymes and structural components of several nucleotides,proteins and hormones. It has critical ubiquitous roles in biochemical functions including protein syntesis,and nucleic acid metabolism, as well as cellular division, gene expression , antioxidant defences,wound healing  ,vision and neurological and immune function . Zinc is present in many foods but higher levels can be found in meat,seafood,milk and nuts,whereas diets high in fibre.

Zinc deficiency in pregnancy has been associated  with impaired immunity,prolonged labor,preterm and post term births,intrauterine growth retardation,low birth weight , pregnancy induced hypertention.

Alcohol and caffeine Alcohol abuse or heavy consumption in pregnancy ( defined as > 80 gr or > 8 standart drinks per day is known to be associated  with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder . These are congenital defects,growth restriction,distinctive facial appearance, neurodevelopment problems .

Caffein The primer metabolite paraxanthine crosses the placenta and causes neuronal excitability. This prpmotes stimulatory activities in maternal and fetal brain.