Zinc gluconate has important applications in the nutritional supplementation for pregnant women and lactating women, which are as follows:

I. Pregnant Women

Meeting Their Own Needs

During pregnancy, the metabolism of pregnant women speeds up, and the demand for various nutrients increases. Zinc is a component or activator of many enzymes in the body of pregnant women and participates in the synthesis and metabolism of biological macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids, which is crucial for maintaining the normal physiological functions of pregnant women. For example, zinc is involved in the proliferation and differentiation of immune cells in the immune system of pregnant women, helping them maintain a good immune status and reducing the risk of infectious diseases.

Promoting Fetal Development

Zinc plays an irreplaceable role in the growth and development of the fetus. During the processes of fetal organ formation, cell division, and tissue differentiation, zinc participates in the activities of many key enzymes, contributing to the normal development of the fetus. Especially in the early stage of pregnancy, when important organs of the fetus such as the nervous system and heart begin to form, an adequate supply of zinc is crucial for preventing fetal malformations. Studies have shown that zinc deficiency in pregnant women may be related to birth defects such as fetal neural tube defects and congenital heart diseases.

Alleviating Pregnancy Reactions

Some pregnant women may experience pregnancy reactions such as poor appetite, nausea, and vomiting during pregnancy. Zinc can improve taste and smell and enhance appetite, thus helping to alleviate pregnancy reactions, enabling pregnant women to consume more sufficient nutrients to meet their own and the fetus's needs.

II. Lactating Women

Ensuring the Quality of Breast Milk

It is essential for lactating women to intake sufficient zinc to ensure the quality of breast milk. Zinc can enter breast milk through the mammary glands, providing a rich source of zinc for infants. Zinc in breast milk has a significant impact on the growth and development, immune function, and nervous system development of infants. If lactating women have insufficient zinc intake, it may lead to a decrease in the zinc content in breast milk, affecting the healthy growth of infants.

Promoting Postpartum Recovery

Lactating women are in the recovery stage and need sufficient nutrients to support the repair of their bodies and the secretion of breast milk. Zinc participates in the synthesis of collagen, which has a positive effect on the repair of reproductive organs such as the uterus and vagina after childbirth and the healing of wounds. At the same time, zinc can also help lactating women maintain a good physical condition, improve their body's resistance, and prevent problems such as postpartum infections.

The demand for zinc increases for both pregnant women and lactating women. Generally, it is recommended that the daily zinc intake for pregnant women is 20 - 25 milligrams, and for lactating women, it is 25 - 30 milligrams. By supplementing with zinc gluconate, the additional zinc needs of women during this period can be effectively met, ensuring the health of both mothers and babies. However, when supplementing, it is necessary to follow the doctor's advice to avoid excessive intake.