Higher Vitamin B12 Levels in Both Parents Associated with Lower Risk of Birth Defects in Offspring

It has long been known that a mother’s nutritional status can affect the development of her unborn child. In this study, however, researchers found that higher vitamin B12 levels in both mothers and fathers before conception were associated with a lower risk of birth defects in their children. The research examined more than 3,000 couples who provided blood samples before conception, along with almost 18,000 women tested during early pregnancy.

The researchers also found that higher levels of red blood cell folate in mothers during early pregnancy were associated with a lower risk of birth defects. Significantly, however, the findings suggest that the father’s nutritional status may also be important. While nutritional advice before pregnancy has traditionally focused overwhelmingly on women, increasing evidence suggests that paternal nutrition can potentially influence the health and development of offspring as well.

The study provides another reminder that good nutrition should not begin only after pregnancy has been confirmed. Ensuring an adequate supply of essential micronutrients before conception may help provide the biological conditions necessary for healthy development from its very earliest stages. Rather than focusing solely on individual nutrients after pregnancy begins, greater attention should therefore be given to improving the overall micronutrient status of both prospective parents before conception.

To read about the importance of micronutrients during pregnancy itself, see parts one and two of the special pregnancy feature article on our website.