Clinical Benefits and Safety of Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation During Preconception, Pregnancy, and Lactation: A Review
Abstract
Objective: In this review we sought to determine the clinical benefits and safety of a multiple micronutrient supplement/supplementation (MMS) throughout preconception, pregnancy, and lactation in the mother and their child.
Background: No guidelines for pregnancy specifically recommend supplementation with micronutrients other than folic acid and iron or continuing the use of MMS beyond the first trimester. Yet micronutrients are essential during all stages of pregnancy for healthy fetal growth and development and maternal health, with an increased intake of many micronutrients recommended during pregnancy and lactation. The MMS reviewed (Elevit, Bayer) is the most studied prenatal form of MMS, supported by 30 publications reporting studies conducted worldwide over 30 years and used by millions of women over a period of 40 years. Until now, the data have not yet been consolidated.
Methods: We performed a literature search to identify published studies for trials that used MMS at any stage of the pregnancy journey.
Results: Outcomes reported in 30 trials suggested that MMS improves micronutrient status, leads to a healthier reproductive environment during preconception, and can significantly reduce neural tube defects and congenital abnormalities in early pregnancy above and beyond supplementation with folic acid alone. We also found that MMS can reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes during the second and third trimesters, including miscarriage, pre-eclampsia, anemia, preterm…
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