Vitamin c and infants
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The Role of Vitamin C in Infant Health
Vitamin C Supplementation for Pregnant Smokers and Infant Airway Function
Improved Airway Function in Infants
Research has shown that vitamin C supplementation (500 mg/day) for pregnant smokers can significantly improve the airway function of their infants. A randomized trial demonstrated that infants of mothers who took vitamin C had better forced expiratory flows (FEFs) at 3 months of age compared to those whose mothers took a placebo . This improvement in airway function was sustained through 12 months of age, indicating a potential long-term benefit . Additionally, a follow-up study found that these benefits extended to 5 years of age, with improved FEF measurements and reduced occurrence of wheeze in the children .
Mechanism and Implications
The positive effects of vitamin C on infant airway function are thought to be due to its antioxidant properties, which may counteract the oxidative stress caused by smoking. This suggests that vitamin C supplementation, along with smoking cessation counseling, could be a simple and cost-effective intervention to enhance respiratory health in infants born to smokers 1210.
Vitamin C Levels in Premature Infants
Low Plasma Vitamin C in Premature Infants
Premature infants, especially those fed pasteurized, pooled human milk, often have low plasma vitamin C levels. A study found that plasma concentrations of vitamin C decline rapidly after birth in preterm infants, reaching very low levels . This highlights the need for careful monitoring and potential supplementation to ensure adequate vitamin C status in these vulnerable infants.
Donor Milk and Vitamin C Supplementation
For term infants exclusively fed donor milk, vitamin C supplementation may be necessary. Research indicates that the vitamin C content in donor milk is often insufficient to meet the recommended daily intake for infants, suggesting that supplementation is required to prevent deficiency .
Maternal Vitamin C Intake and Infant Growth
Positive Association with Fetal and Infant Growth
Maternal intake of vitamin C during pregnancy has been associated with improved fetal and infant growth. A study from the Korean Mothers and Children’s Environmental Health (MOCEH) cohort found that higher maternal consumption of fruits, vegetables, and vitamin C was linked to better fetal biometry and increased infant weight and length up to 6 months of age . This underscores the importance of adequate vitamin C intake during pregnancy for optimal infant development.
Vitamin C in Breast Milk and Infant Nutrition
Influence of Maternal Diet on Breast Milk
The vitamin C content in breast milk is influenced by maternal diet and supplementation. Studies have shown that maternal vitamin C intake positively correlates with its concentration in breast milk, although there appears to be a regulatory mechanism that maintains consistent levels in milk despite varying maternal intake . Supplementation with vitamin C and E has been shown to increase the antioxidant content of breast milk and improve antioxidant activity in infant urine, suggesting benefits for both mother and child .
Prolonged Lactation and Vitamin C Status
During prolonged lactation, exclusively breast-fed infants generally maintain adequate plasma vitamin C levels, even when maternal intake is marginal. However, some lactating mothers may experience suboptimal plasma vitamin C concentrations, particularly during certain times postpartum and seasons, indicating a need for dietary vigilance .
Conclusion
Vitamin C plays a crucial role in infant health, particularly in improving airway function in infants of pregnant smokers, supporting growth, and ensuring adequate nutritional status in both preterm and term infants. Maternal intake of vitamin C, whether through diet or supplementation, significantly impacts the vitamin C content in breast milk and the overall health of the infant. These findings highlight the importance of ensuring sufficient vitamin C intake during pregnancy and lactation to promote optimal infant development and health.
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