Zinc is most commonly known for its impacts on immune function and resistance to infection, and also for its role in male fertility and sperm health. However, this mineral’s influence is incredibly widespread in the body, as zinc is a component of more than 200 enzymes involved in digestion, metabolism and synthesis of RNA and DNA.
Not surprisingly, then, this also makes having adequate levels of zinc essential for healthy pregnancy outcomes.
A new publication from India has demonstrated that zinc deficiency during pregnancy has been linked to higher rates of miscarriage, neural tube defects, premature rupture of membrane (“water breaking” early), preterm delivery, prolonged labour and stillbirth and risk of maternal and infant mortality. Zinc is also essential for breastfeeding and infant health.
Zinc can be found in dietary sources (whole grains, legumes, oysters, red meat), and in prenatal vitamins. As I detail in my online pregnancy program, this nutrient can be supplemented safely at a dosage of 11-40mg per day. In my clinic, especially during the Covid pandemic, I recommend adding a combined zinc-copper supplement of 25mg zinc:1mg of copper (higher dosages of zinc can reduce the amount of copper your body absorbs, so this ratio helps to maintain that balance), in addition to a high quality prenatal, to further boost zinc status and support immune system function.
Raising zinc levels can thus be an easy boost to a healthier pregnancy.
I hope you have found this helpful, and do let me know if you have any questions!
If you are hungry for more evidence-based information for your fertility or pregnancy journey, visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.comfor free webinars and complete programs.
And if you are a care-provider looking for evidence-based resources for your fertility or pregnancy patients, please get in touch with us at support@myhealthypregnancyplan.com, or visit www.myhealthypregnancyplan.com/ce-courses-for-naturopathic-doctors.
In health,
Dr Jocelyn Land-Murphy, ND
Terra Life
Disclaimer: The information and content provided is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Please consult the Disclaimer and Terms of Use for full details.
References:
Durrani, A. et al. (2021).Zinc Deficiency and Its Consequences During Pregnancy. Microbial Biofertilizers and Micronutrient Availability, 69-82.