Whether you are expecting a baby or planning to conceive, both journeys have their own unique experiences. At this point, your body experiences a lot of changes. Therefore to get ready for this amazing journey it is extremely important to keep yourself healthy.
Eating good food is a great way to start, but sometimes during pregnancy, your body might need some extra care. Therefore medical professionals suggest prenatal supplements for moms-to-be and those planning to have a baby.
Consuming these pills makes your pregnancy journey healthier and happier; they also give you and your baby the best nutrition required to kick-start the journey.
What are Prenatal Supplements?
Prenatal pills give your body the required vitamins and minerals before and during pregnancy.
One of the most crucial vitamins when planning a baby is folic acid. It is a type of vitamin B that helps your cells to grow and also lowers the risk of NTDs or neural tube defects (issues with the baby’s brain and spine). Some women might need more folic acid, especially if they've had a pregnancy affected by NTDs or have sickle cell disease. Your doctor or any medical professional can guide you with the amount of dosage required.
Even though getting your nutrients from food is the best, however, consuming prenatal pills can help ensure your body gets the exact amount required. Your midwife or medical expert can suggest the best vitamins for you, in addition to folic acid.
Benefits of Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Pregnancy vitamins differ from regular multivitamins because they give you the extra nutrition that is required for your baby’s health and growth. Some essential prenatal vitamins are—
Folic acid
It is one of the most important prenatal, especially when you are planning to conceive or you are in your early pregnancy. It helps deal with the problems of the baby's brain and spine that mostly occur in the early trimesters before you even know you're pregnant. Therefore doctors suggest taking 400 mcg of folic acid every day and continuing for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Also, if you've had a baby with this kind of problem before, talk to your doctor about the right dosage for you.
Foods like citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, and some fortified foods have folic acid too, but it is always better to consume supplements for the same so that your body receives the right amount of nutrients required.
Iron
Iron helps your body make more blood cells that carry oxygen to the baby which further helps in the baby’s growth and development.
Calcium
It is another important nutrient required during pregnancy that helps keep your bones strong as the baby uses calcium from the mother's body for its own bone growth.
Iodine
Iodine is extremely crucial for pregnant women dealing with thyroid. Not having enough iodine can lead to serious consequences for both you and the baby, like miscarriage or stillbirth, and issues with the physical and mental development of the baby.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These are special fats containing DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), found in fish and nuts. Eating low-mercury seafood (like salmon, halibut, and shrimp) is always recommended by doctors during pregnancy.
Omega-3s, especially DHA and EPA, are known to lower the risk of having a baby with low birth weight and even premature delivery. If you don't eat a lot of fish, ask your doctor if you should take a supplement. Remember, not all prenatal pills have Omega-3s.
Choline
Your body produces some choline, but you mainly get it from foods like chicken, beef, fish, pork, and eggs. Choline is super important for your baby's brain development, just like other nutrients. It's a good idea to ask your doctor because not all prenatal pills include choline.
Protein
You need more protein during pregnancy because your body is growing new tissue, a placenta, and most importantly a baby. For a healthy pregnancy, aim for about 10 grams more protein per day than the recommended amount. The recommended amount is based on your weight, suggesting about 60 grams of protein daily during pregnancy.
Remember, consuming every nutrient is not required when pregnant. It really depends on what your body needs. So, especially during this important time, always consult with your doctor before having anything new.
When to Start Taking Prenatal Vitamins
Begin taking folic acid about a month before you plan to start trying for a baby. Those first weeks when you're pregnant are super important for the baby's health. Folic acid and other vitamins for moms-to-be can lower the chances of certain birth defects.
Keep taking those prenatal pills throughout your pregnancy. Remember getting the right amount of nutrients is really helpful for you and the baby!
Prenatal Supplement Side Effects
Many people have doubts about the side effects of prenatal supplements. Some expecting mothers feel nauseous or get constipated after the consumption of the pills. If this happens to you, don't worry. Just chat with your doctor about trying different brands or types of vitamins.
Here are a few things that might help during such conditions—
- Eat foods high in fiber like whole grains, fruits (apples, bananas, and berries), and lentils.
- Drink plenty of water, min 3 to 4 liters a day.
- Go for walks or mild exercises during pregnancy. Do this only after your doctor permits you to do so.
- For constipation, your doctor might suggest a stool softener. You can get it with a prescription or over the counter.
- Try taking rest as much as you can. Good sleep hygiene and a comfy pregnancy pillow might help you sleep better.
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Takeaway
Future and expecting mothers, now you know the importance of prenatal supplements and the secret behind your baby’s healthy development. Supplements like folic acid, vitamins, and minerals not only support your health in this amazing journey but also work best for your baby’s well-being.
Check with your doctor and get those prenatal added to your daily routine to kickstart your healthy pregnancy journey.
Sources:
Mayo Clinic: Prenatal vitamins: Why they matter, how to choose
WebMD: The Importance of Taking Prenatal Vitamins During Pregnancy
