No matter how much she's conscious about eating healthy foods, even then during pregnancy a mother's body can become deficient in certain nutrients.

Germany's professional association of gynaecologists said that Mothers-to-be should note that their bodies have a greater need for micronutrients such as folic acid, iodine, iron, calcium and magnesium.

For the healthy development of the baby and prevent deformities and other maladies, these nutrients are important. The association further said that supplements can help correct a deficiency.

Whether to take them and if so, how much is something always best determined after an appointment with a gynaecologist.

A pregnant woman should eat healthy foods and whole foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, complex carbohydrates, roughage, dairy products and unsaturated fats. (With Input from Agencies)