Plasma concentrations of retinol and vitamins E and C during the first twelve months of post natal life.

Concentrations of retinol, vitamins E and C in cord and maternal blood samples were studied in rural health centres, polyclinics and maternities in Cross River State, Nigeria. Plasma concentrations of retinol, vitamins E and C were followed up for 12 months of post natal life. At birth cord blood levels of retinol and vitamin E were significantly lower than the maternal levels but vitamin C levels were higher. During the first twelve months of post natal life, there was a significant increase in the levels of these fat-soluble blood components but the mean was still less than one-third of the mother's level either at birth or at six weeks. However, vitamin C levels in infants showed a decrease at three months. The results are discussed in terms of nutritional and non-nutritional factors.