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Are Prenatal Vitamins Good For You?

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Prapti Chauhan
Are Prenatal Vitamins Good For You?

You might be unsure about prenatal vitamins. If that’s the case, then allow us to put your fears to rest. Here’s why prenatal vitamins are helpful during pregnancy. 

What Are Prenatal Vitamins? 

Your body changes during pregnancy and needs different types of vitamins. These include more folic acid and iron, giving expectant moms like you an extra dose of energy. Sometimes, they include omega-3 fatty acids and an extra boost of calcium and vitamin D.

Do You Need Prenatal Vitamins? 

Following a healthy diet during pregnancy can give you the necessary nourishment. Sometimes, however, your body needs extra help. Pregnancy makes the body demand more folic acid and iron, which cannot be fulfilled by only relying on a diet. Therefore, you should consume prenatal vitamins to fill the gap. Also, research shows that taking prenatal vitamins lowers your baby's risk of being underweight at the time of birth.

Of course, prenatal vitamins are not a substitute for a healthy diet, so you must continue to eat a balanced diet. 

What Are The Best Prenatal Vitamins?

You can just walk into a pharmacy and get parental vitamins of your choice. Still, it's always better to ask your healthcare provider for suggestions. 

Here are the different types: 

  • Folic acid: This prevents neural tube defects, which are severe abnormalities of the spinal cord and the brain.

  • Iron: It plays a significant role in the baby's overall development and can also prevent anemia.

  • Calcium: If you want your baby to have strong teeth and bones, you need calcium-rich vitamins.

  • Vitamin D: Vitamin D works in tandem with calcium to strengthen your baby's bones, and counters a possible Vitamin D deficiency you may have.

You may benefit from prenatal vitamins that also contain:

  • Vitamin C
  • , A & E
  • Zinc
  • Iodine
  • Copper

If you don't eat fish, you can opt for a prenatal vitamin rich in DHA and other Omega-3 fatty acids, which helps in your baby's brain development.

Why Do I Need to Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins?  

If you are trying to conceive, you need to get enough folic acid. So, start with these vitamins. It will ensure that your baby's neural tube, which will become the spinal cord and the brain, develops during the first month of your pregnancy. If you have any concerns, talk to your healthcare provider.

How Long Do I Need to Take Prenatal Vitamins?

You should take prenatal vitamins throughout your pregnancy. Even after your baby is born, your doctor might still recommend them. They are incredibly beneficial if you are breastfeeding.

Are There Any Side Effects of Prenatal Vitamins?

Prenatal vitamins may induce nausea among pregnant women. You can avoid this by taking vitamins with a snack just before you go to bed. 

Consuming iron can also cause constipation. Here are a few remedies:

  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Eat a fiber-rich diet
  • If your healthcare provider is okay with it, then get some exercise.
  • Ask your healthcare provider if you can take a stool softener.

If you are still struggling with side effects, you can explore other alternatives with your doctor. He or she may suggest a different brand or give your separate supplements.

What If I Have Trouble Swallowing the Pills? 

You may find prenatal vitamins too large to swallow. If that's the case, then try chewable or gummy prenatal vitamins. Choose the alternative that works for you, and remember to listen to your body. 

While prenatal vitamins are essential for you and your baby, remember that nothing can substitute a healthy diet. Also, consult your doctor before you start consuming these vitamins.

 

Author Bio: Prapti Chauhan is a professor of Genetics in Bangalore. She has contributed to several online research papers. However, she passionately develops content on pregnancy, childbirth, childcare and newborn cord blood banking, stem cell banking and umbilical cord lining, and more.

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