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A properly balanced diet rich in minerals and vitamins is very important not only for the well-being of the pregnant woman, but above all for the health of the fetus. Pregnant women should take as many nutrients as possible not only with meals, but also with dietary supplements, because there is an increased need for minerals and vitamins during pregnancy.
What exactly is lutein? It is a female hormone that is responsible for the correct menstrual cycle, the concentration of the hormone changes depending on the phase of the cycle. In the beginning, there is less lutein, then it increases the closer to ovulation, the highest level is reached between the 20th and 22nd days of the cycle. Lutein is a hormone – progesterone, it is recommended for use in the case of bleeding, spotting in pregnancy, too early uterine contractions, cervical dilatation. After fertilization, the hormone is still produced, so what is the importance of lutein in pregnancy?
Lutein in pregnancy – what it is
Lutein belongs to the group of dyes also known as carotenoids. According to gynecologists, it should be present in the daily diet of every pregnant woman. A high concentration of this hormone is found in vegetables and fruits, so they should be included in the daily diet of a pregnant woman. The darker the color of the fruit or vegetable, the greater the level of carotenoids. Introducing as many different-colored fruits or vegetables as possible guarantees the intake of sufficient amounts of carotenoids, including lutein. Lutein during pregnancy should be taken in the right proportions, the optimal dose is 6-10 mg of lutein per day.
What else is the source of lutein? It is worth reaching for green, leafy vegetables, for example spinach. According to nutritionists, lutein is also found in egg yolk. As there is an increased risk of digestive problems when consuming soft-boiled eggs, pregnant women should only eat hard-boiled eggs. Other sources of valuable lutein are: corn, broccoli, peas, Brussels sprouts, pumpkin.
Lutein in pregnancy is produced by the placenta. The action of this hormone is mainly through the work of receptors in the uterus, nervous system, mammary glands and pituitary gland. Lutein is metabolized in the liver as well as the kidneys. Lutein in pregnancy plays an even greater role, because it primarily prevents involuntary contractions of the uterus, inhibits the immune response of the mother to the antigens of the fetus, initiates labor at the right time, causes changes in the mammary glands. That is why lutein is so important throughout pregnancy.
Lutein in pregnancy – action
Lutein is a needed hormone not only during pregnancy but also at other times in life. The correct level of lutein in the blood has a beneficial effect on the proper functioning of the eyes and the appearance of the skin. Lutein in pregnancy is a very good antioxidant, thanks to which it is possible to regenerate skin damage caused by free radicals that can lead to neoplastic changes.
There is no accurate research yet that lutein in pregnancy has a direct effect on the development of the fetus, but according to specialists, lutein contributes to the formation and development of certain organs in the fetal body. Lutein has been found in cord blood tests, which may suggest that it is an ingredient passed to the baby from the mother. Further research is needed to confirm or exclude the participation of lutein in the formation of new organs in the unborn child. It is also very important to clearly specify the dosage of lutein, is it really necessary to increase the dosage during pregnancy?