Prenatal Vitamins
Nutrition During Pregnancy
It is best to start taking a multivitamin and mineral supplement before you get pregnant. This helps keep you healthy and stores up nutrients for pregnancy. It is recommended that a good prenatal vitamin continue to be taken throughout your pregnancy, and during breastfeeding. Some women may feel they are getting enough nutrients through a balanced diet. However, supplements are still recommended since during pregnancy and breastfeeding extra nutrients are needed.
Ask your doctor a supplement that will fit your needs. Prescription prenatal vitamins are safer to take than herbal supplements. Prescription medicines are regulated by the FDA and its contents are known. Herbal supplements are not regulated and the contents, even though labeled, may not be accurate. If you are taking other supplements make sure your doctor knows so that you can avoid toxic levels of certain nutrients.
Prenatal vitamins should contain AT LEAST:
Contents |
Amount |
Benefit |
Calcium |
250 mg + |
Promotes normal bone development, blood clotting, and muscle and nerve function |
Copper |
2 mg |
Helps body absorb iron, and form hemoglobin |
Folic Acid |
400-600 mcg |
Promotes blood cell growth. Prevents birth defects |
Iron |
30 mg |
Necessary for blood to carry oxygen. Prevents anemia |
Niacin |
18 mg |
Regulates metabolism. Lowers blood cholesterol |
Riboflavin |
1.4 mg |
Maintains healthy skin, vision, and nervous system function. Promotes disease resistance |
Thiamin |
1.4 mg |
Promotes good heart and nerve function |
Vitamin A |
no more than 4, 000 IU |
May prevent heart disease and some cancers. Promotes good eyesight and bone growth |
Vitamin B12 |
2.6 mg |
Promotes healthy red blood cells and DNA |
Vitamin B6 |
2-10 mg |
Promotes healthy cell function. Can help reduce morning sickness if taken before becoming pregnant and continued the first two weeks |
Vitamin C |
80 mg |
Promotes circulatory function and wound healing. Provides protection from bacteria and viruses |
Vitamin D |
no more than 400 IU |
Builds bones and muscles. Helps absorb calcium |
Vitamin E |
15 mg |
Protects cells from damage |
Zinc |
15 mg |
Promotes normal vision, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and help with fertility |
