Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12
For the health condition: Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient with strong scientific validation for its use during pregnancy. Vitamin B12 plays a critical role in DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and neurological development, all of which are especially important during pregnancy. Deficiency in B12 during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of neural tube defects, developmental delays, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Pregnant individuals, particularly those following vegetarian or vegan diets, are at higher risk of B12 deficiency because this vitamin is naturally found primarily in animal products.

Multiple clinical guidelines, including those from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), recommend ensuring adequate B12 intake during pregnancy, often through supplementation if dietary intake is insufficient. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies have confirmed that supplementation corrects deficiency, improves maternal and fetal B12 status, and reduces the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes related to B12 deficiency.

Unlike some herbal remedies or supplements that rely primarily on traditional use, vitamin B12’s role in pregnancy is well-established in medical literature. Regular prenatal vitamins commonly contain B12, and supplementation is considered both safe and effective for preventing deficiency-related complications. For these reasons, the use of vitamin B12 in pregnancy is supported by robust scientific evidence.

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