Betacarotene

Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A and it plays a crucial role in pregnancy due to its contribution to foetal development and maternal health. As an antioxidant, beta-carotene protects cells from oxidative stress, supporting a healthy immune system during pregnancy. It is also essential for the development of the baby’s eyes, skin, and immune system. 

Beta-carotene helps prevent vitamin A deficiency, which is particularly significant during pregnancy as vitamin A is critical for embryonic development, organ formation, and vision.

While excessive vitamin A intake can be harmful during pregnancy, beta-carotene is a safe precursor that the body converts into vitamin A as needed. It is found in many foods including carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, butternut pumpkin, capsicum and rockmelon. However, supplementation may be required in order to meet the increased demands of pregnancy. 

References:

Bastos Maia, S., Rolland Souza, A., Costa Caminha, M., Lins da Silva, S., Callou Cruz, R., Carvalho dos Santos, C., & Batista Filho, M. (2019, March 22). Vitamin A and Pregnancy: A Narrative Review. Nutrients, 11(3), 681. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11030681

Haskell MJ. The challenge to reach nutritional adequacy for vitamin A: β-carotene bioavailability and conversion--evidence in humans. Am J Clin Nutr. 2012 Nov;96(5):1193S-203S. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23053560/

Marshall, N. E., et al (2022, May). The importance of nutrition in pregnancy and lactation: lifelong consequences. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 226(5), 607–632. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajog.2021.12.035