Vitamin B12 Linked to Colic

A colicky baby is a test for any parent, but the results of a new study may be the first step in helping moms do what they can to prevent the condition, before their babies are even born.

Researchers have proven that women with higher levels of vitamin B12 in their systems during early pregnancy are three times as likely to have happy, quiet babies than those with lower levels of B12. Women with low levers are said to be at greater risk of having disgruntled babies who cry for more than three hours a day.

Vitamin B12 has been linked to nervous system and brain development in unborn babies, but this is the first time colic has been linked to the vitamin – and is the first time it has been linked to any nutritional factor, period. Researchers are theorizing that a vitamin B12 deficiency may be affecting the nerve cells in the brains of the babies and may cause them to have disrupted sleep patterns after birth, both of which could lead to irritability and “colic”.

Still, despite the findings, doctors and scientists are saying it is too early to recommend that mothers change their diets to accommodate these new findings. Nutritionists have warned that some sources of vitamin B12 can be harmful to pregnant women. Healthy sources of Vitamin B12 for moms-to-be include red meat, chicken and dairy products, as well as fortified cereals. Sources known to be dangerous for pregnant women include liver, soft cheese and shellfish.