Fetal development: most effective dietary supplements

Fetal development is strongly influenced by the quality of maternal nutrition. A balanced diet during pregnancy is essential to ensure normal fetal growth, reduce perinatal complications, and prevent chronic diseases in adulthood.

Risks to fetal development

An inadequate intake of essential nutrients, such as protein, folate, and iron, is associated with intrauterine growth restriction. This condition increases the risks of low birth weight, perinatal mortality, and neonatal complications (respiratory, neurological problems, etc.). Furthermore, epidemiological studies show that individuals who suffered from intrauterine growth restriction have an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. Maternal obesity and an energy-dense diet also disrupt fetal development. These conditions reduce placental and fetal blood flow, limiting the supply of oxygen and essential nutrients. They also increase the risks of macrosomia, obstetric complications, and predisposition to metabolic diseases in the child.​

Optimizing the intrauterine environment

Polyamines (small organic molecules) and nitric oxide (NO) play an important role in fetal development by regulating DNA synthesis, cell proliferation, and blood vessel formation (angiogenesis). A deficiency in arginine, a key precursor of NO, can reduce placental blood flow and lead to intrauterine growth restriction. Targeted arginine supplementation could be necessary to improve maternal-fetal exchanges and promote growth.​ The folates, or vitamin B9, also play an essential role during pregnancy by supporting rapid cell growth and DNA formation, both indispensable for fetal development. Folate deficiency can lead to serious neural tube defects, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. For this reason, health authorities recommend a daily intake of 400 to 800 µg of folic acid, starting in the preconception period and continuing through the first trimester.