Date:1/18/2011

d two thirds took iron-based supplements even though only about a third had displayed an iron deficit," explains Hauner. "This careless use of iron-based supplements is not only pointless, it can even harm the unborn child given the very high doses often taken. Unfortunately, there are no conclusive studies on the subject, yet." Furthermore, it was established that three quarters of the pregnant women in the study supplemented magnesium and that over 40 percent took Omega-3 fatty acids. According to the current state of research, both are either superfluous or have little evidence to show for any benefits magnesium is recommended by doctors only in very specific cases and Omega-3 fatty acids might contribute to the development of cognitive abilities.

"In light of the lack of research on the side effects of overdosed supplements, the motto for certain dietary supplements during pregnancy should be: less is more," says Hauner in summing up the results. "However, folic acid and iodine should definitely be supplemented in the recommended dose by women who want to become pregnant." Based on the results of the survey, the TUM nutritional expert is calling for in-depth studies to be conducted in the future, not only on the benefits but also on the risks of supplements during pregnancy.

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Contact: Jana Bodicky bodicky@zv.tum.de 49-816-171-5403 Technische Universitaet Muenchen Source:Eurekalert

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