Page updated 06/04/18 12:47:36 p.m.
What are prenatal vitamins?
These are multivitamins specially formulated to cover any nutritional gaps in the mother's and mother to be's diet. The formulation is safe and appropriate for women who are trying to conceive, and those who are already pregnant or breastfeeding.
Is it really important to take prenatal vitamins?
Most OBGYN will require pregnant women or women who are of childbearing age to take supplements that are specially formulated with nutrients that are essential for childbearing. This is because it is hard to get all the substantial nutrients from the food that we eat. By taking prenatal supplements, women of childbearing age and those who are already pregnant can be assured that you are getting the right kind with the right amount of nutrients.
What nutrients are needed by pregnant women?
The following nutrients support the nutritional needs of mothers in order to benefit the overall health and wellbeing of both mother and the growing child inside her womb:
Folic Acid This helps protect babies against birth defects affecting the spinal cord when taken during the first 30 days of pregnancy. It also helps prevent early miscarriage and premature delivery as well as prevent onset of pregnancy related anemia.
DHA or Docosahexaenoic Acid As one of the essential omega 3 fatty acids, DHA helps boost the brain development of the fetus as well as vision. It also helps reduce the risk of heart disease in the future.
Calcium Helps build bones and teeth. And because the growing baby takes the calcium from the mother, she needs to take supplements to replace the amount being taken from her. It also helps prevent onset of hypertension in mothers during pregnancy.
Iodine It helps in the proper development of the brain and nervous system and helps prevent stunted growth, severe mental disability and deafness. It is also an important nutrient in preventing miscarriage and stillbirth. Mothers benefit from taking Iodine by maintaining a healthy thyroid gland.
Iron
Helps prevent premature delivery as well as prevents onset of anemia in pregnant women.
Potassium
It helps prevent onset of hypertension as well as helps maintain proper fluid balance. It is also necessary for normal heart beat and energy. Page updated 06/04/18 12:47:36 p.m.
