Taurine pregnancy6/15/2023 ![]() 15 Also, carnitine can be used to convert ALA (an essential omega-3 fatty acid precursor) into DHA within cell membranes. 14 By nature’s design, infants can also get carnitine and ketones from their mother’s breastmilk, which should ideally contain high amounts of carnitine to support the critical brain growth and development occurring during infancy. 13 This is because infants rely heavily on the energy produced from ketones (byproducts from fats that can be used for energy) following birth – an energy-intensive process that requires high amounts of carnitine. 12 While in the womb, babies must also store adequate amounts of carnitine in the liver and muscle tissue to help ensure survival after birth. Throughout the prenatal period, babies use substantial amounts of fats and carnitine for energy production, growth, and development. ![]() 9, 10 A final factor worth mentioning is that pregnancy-related changes in kidney function can also lead to accelerated carnitine loss during urination. 7, 8 Furthermore, research shows that pregnant women carrying excessive weight are more likely to be iron-deficient and have lower carnitine levels compared to pregnant women of normal weight. 6 Because carnitine synthesis is partially reliant on iron status, this means a lot of women with low iron availability may not be able to make carnitine readily as needed. ![]() 5 The most common micronutrient deficiency experienced during pregnancy is iron-deficient anemia, which affects about 40 percent of pregnant women in the US. 5 Indeed, morning sickness may lead to various nutritional deficiencies, especially for women who started the pregnancy with a low nutritional status. During the first trimester, many women experience “morning sickness” (nausea and vomiting that can last all day), which may significantly reduce appetite and nutrient intake.
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