International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

Women who consume plenty of vitamin B12 during their pregnancy are likely to have a calm baby, new research has revealed.

Scientists from the Public Health Service in the Netherlands said pregnant women who increase their intake of foods rich in the nutrient, such as steak and eggs, during the first three months' gestation will have babies who cry less.

It is believed to be because the vitamin plays a major role in the development of the brain and nervous system in babies.

"This study provides first evidence for an early nutritional origin in infant crying behaviour," the researchers said.

Almost 3,000 pregnant women took part in the study, in which researchers measured the levels of vitamin B12 in the bloodstream of the mothers-to-be.

The researchers found the women with the least amount of the nutrient in their blood had babies who were eight times more prone to crying.

According to the UK's NHS, women should try to consume plenty of iron, vitamin C and D and calcium during their pregnancy. Before falling pregnant, and in the first few months of gestation, they should also take folic acid supplements.

Posted by Carla Mackenzie