Development of a Nutraceutical Product as a Supplement during Pregnancy

Abstract

Nutrition during pregnancy is very important. There are several essential nutrients and micro nutrients that regulate the healthy growth of the fetus as well as keeps the pregnant woman fit. While in the state of pregnancy, a woman is generally prescribed to have iron, calcium, zinc, folic acid, DHA, Vitamin C and Vitamin D. Therefore, in this current study that was carried in Jaypee University of Information Technology, Waknaghat in the biotechnology department we focused on the development of a nutraceutical product for a pregnant woman that will be used as a supplement during pregnancy. Based on the literature review, we identified that flax seeds (DHA, Iron, Zinc), asparagus (folic acid), mushroom (Vitamin D) and Cissus quadrangularis (Vitamin C, Calcium) were the plants we can use for our study as they had all the desired components that we were looking for. Further qualitative and quantitative tests were performed and data was recorded. Qualitative tests were performed so that there is an assurance of several micronutrients present in the sample. Once it was done, samples were subjected to quantitative analysis through HPLC and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Data was recorded and further subjected for the formation of a desired ratio.