Dangerous vitamins for pregnant women: scientists found toxic substances in popular complexes

Many of them not only lacked the declared substances, but also contained toxic impurities such as arsenic, lead and cadmium.

What the scientists found

The experts purchased 47 different prenatal vitamin complexes between August and October 2022: 32 over-the-counter and 15 prescription products from online retailers and pharmacies in the US. The purpose of the study was to check the compliance of dosages of choline and iodine, as well as to detect the presence of harmful impurities. The results were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

The alarming results of the analysis

• Arsenic: Seven of the complexes tested had arsenic levels above the acceptable 2.5 micrograms per daily dose set by United States Pharmacopeia (USP).
• Lead and Cadmium: Two samples showed an exceedance of lead and 13 samples showed an exceedance of cadmium. USP standards allow no more than 0.5 micrograms of these toxins.

Deficiencies of essential substances

• Choline: Essential for the proper development of a baby's brain and spinal cord, and for preventing birth defects. Of the 47 complexes, only 12 contained choline, and only five contained the amount claimed. The recommended dose of choline for pregnant women is 450 mg per day and 550 mg for breastfeeding mothers.
• Iodine: Important for foetal growth and development. Out of 25 iodine complexes, only four contained iodine in accordance with the information on the label. The recommended daily allowance of iodine for pregnant women is 220 mcg and 290 mcg for breastfeeding women.

The scientists called for increased control by supervisory authorities over the production and distribution of vitamin and mineral complexes for pregnant women.