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A groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports has revealed that daily vitamin C supplementation can significantly improve placental blood flow in pregnant smokers, bringing it to levels similar to those of nonsmokers. This discovery suggests that vitamin C may help counteract smoking-related placental impairments and enhance fetal health outcomes.
The research, conducted as part of the “Vitamin C to Decrease the Effects of Smoking in Pregnancy on Infant Lung Function” (VCSIP) trial, involved 55 pregnant smokers and 33 nonsmokers. Participants who smoked and received a placebo exhibited reduced umbilical vein Doppler velocities (Vmax), indicating impaired blood flow. However, those who took a daily 500 mg vitamin C supplement showed significantly improved blood circulation to the placenta, aligning with the levels seen in nonsmoking pregnancies.
Maternal smoking during pregnancy (MSDP) and prenatal nicotine exposure have long been linked to decreased placental vascular function, abnormal placental histology, and lifelong reductions in offspring lung function. Using Doppler ultrasound imaging, researchers confirmed that vitamin C supplementation improved umbilical vein blood flow, suggesting it mitigates some of the vascular damage caused by smoking.
Additionally, RNA sequencing analysis indicated that vitamin C influenced gene expression related to vascular and cardiac development. These findings provide a potential mechanism through which vitamin C enhances placental and fetal health, offering a promising avenue for reducing the negative effects of smoking during pregnancy.
The study’s authors emphasize that while vitamin C supplementation may provide benefits, the best course of action remains smoking cessation during pregnancy to ensure optimal maternal and fetal health.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider before taking any supplements or making changes to their health regimen.
(Source: Scientific Reports)
