Women's Health

Vitamin B-12 and healthy babies - Dr. Robert Hackman

A study in the March 2009 issue of the medical journal, Pediatrics (volume 123, pages 917-23) reported that mothers with low levels of Vitamin B-12 were up to five times more likely to have babies with birth defects of the brain and spine (neural tube defects). Dietary sources of B12 include animal-based foods such as meat, milk, chicken and eggs, and properly formulated prenatal supplements.

Building on our understanding of the role of another key B-vitamin - folic acid - and its importance for reducing the risk of birth defects, the new B12 study underscores the importance of optimal nutrition before and during pregnancy. Vitamin B-12 is vital for nervous system functioning and for production of red blood cells. Low levels of B12 can compromise the health and energy of mothers, as well as put their developing infants at risk. Many neural tube birth defects begin within the first one to two months of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant.

"Great nutrition for pregnancy starts before conception" says Dr. Carl Keen, Professor of Nutrition and Internal Medicine at the University of California, Davis, and one of the world's leading experts on nutrition and embryo development (Dr. Keen is also a member of AdvoCare's Scientific and Medical Advisory Board). "In addition to wise food choices that are rich in vitamins and minerals, and moderate in fat, salt and sugar, a scientifically formulated multivitamin/mineral supplement with at least 100% of the recommended intakes of Vitamin B-12 and folic acid is suggested."

AdvoCare's CorePlex® with Iron is an excellent supplement for pregnant moms and women who might become pregnant. CorePlex® with Iron contains 36mcg of the Vitamin B-12 in addition to folic acid along with 35 other vitamins and minerals.