What is the major role of antioxidants during pregnancy?

The major role of antioxidants during pregnancy is to prevent cellular damage. During pregnancy, the body experiences increased oxidative stress due to heightened metabolic activity and changes in hormonal levels. Antioxidants help to neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and tissues. By doing so, antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting both the mother and the developing fetus from oxidative stress, which has been linked to various pregnancy complications and can impact fetal development.

Fetal development is particularly vulnerable during pregnancy, and protecting cells from damage can help ensure that organs and systems develop correctly. This makes the role of antioxidants essential in supporting a healthy pregnancy. While antioxidants may play supportive roles in brain development and reducing cellular damage associated with deficiencies, their primary function in this context is their ability to prevent cellular damage resulting from oxidative stress.