Herbal Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods in Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Scientific Review
Corresponding author: [email protected]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a crucial physiological state characterised by major metabolic changes and hormonal fluctuations, in which proper nutritional support is needed to protect fetal development and maternal health. Modern lifestyle practices and the routine use of synthetic medicines or hormonal supplements can compromise maternal well-being and fetal growth, prompting a global shift towards herbal supplements with few or no major side effects. Nutraceuticals comprising bioactive components from herbal sources provide health benefits, while functional foods exert physiological effects beyond basic nutrition, helping to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, hepatological issues, gestational diabetes mellitus, pre-eclampsia and digestive problems. This review compiles research from the last 10–15 years on herbal nutraceuticals such as garlic, ginger, turmeric, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fibres, polyphenols and flavonoids. Recognising that each pregnancy differs and that inconsistent dosing or unsupervised use may pose risks, the chapter critically examines recent findings on herbal nutraceuticals and functional foods during pregnancy, outlining their advantages, mechanisms, drawbacks and future scope.
Author Affiliations
- 1 Department of Biotechnology, Techno India University, EM4, Sector V, Kolkata-700091, West Bengal, India.