Calcium and phosphorus are vital to the structure of bones and teeth. The last trimester is when skeletal growth is highest. The fetus draws calcium, like iron, directly from the mother's stores. Milk and milk products are the chief sources, but are not limited to those. Calcium is also found in dark, leafy green vegetables. Phosphorus is very widely available in most fresh meats, processed meats, snack foods, and carbonated drinks.

Zinc is very important in the synthesis of DNA and RNA, protein synthesis and cell development. Zinc may increase fertility in men and women, while lack of zinc in the diet may lower fertility. Another side effect of zinc deficiency was shown in a study with 400 pregnant women. Low birth weight babies were born eight times more to the women with the lowest levels of zinc compared to the women with the highest levels of zinc.

I could go on for hours about the special roles vitamins and minerals play in our everyday functioning. It is amazing to think that something so small can be so vital to our health. In addition, many of the vitamins and minerals interact together and cannot perform their daily functions if we are deficient in even one. Yet, the question still remains: Are pregnant women in need of a multivitamin and mineral supplement?

I learned the RDA, Recommended Dietary Allowances, are based on the best available evidence from metabolic balance studies and from indirect estimates to determine the amount of energy and selected nutrients needed. Body size, activity and health states all are factors in determining appropriate levels and if supplements are beneficial. The RDI, Reference Daily Intakes, sets the standard for vitamins and minerals used on food labels as part of the daily values. The right amount for supplements should be at 100-200 percent of the RDI.

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