The cost of vitamins for pregnant women: how to save?

The cost of vitamins for pregnant women: how to save?

1. Pregnancy and vitamins: necessity and review

Pregnancy is a unique period in a woman’s life, requiring increased attention to health and nutrition. At this time, the body experiences an increased need for vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal development of the fetus and maintaining the health of the mother. The deficiency of these substances can lead to serious consequences, including congenital defects, premature birth, low birth weight and other complications. Therefore, taking vitamin complexes for pregnant women is often recommended by doctors.

However, the cost of these vitamins can be a tangible cost item for future parents. The variety of brands, compositions and forms of release creates confusion and complicates the choice of the best option in terms of price and quality.

In this extensive analysis, we will consider various aspects of vitamin support during pregnancy, factors affecting the cost of vitamin complexes, ways to save without damage to health, as well as alternative sources of vitamins and minerals.

2. The main vitamins and minerals necessary during pregnancy

• Folic acid (vitamin B9): Critically important for the prevention of defects of the fetal nervous tube, such as Spina Bifida. It is recommended to start taking folic acid a few months before conception and continue during the first trimester of pregnancy. The dosage is usually 400-800 mcg per day.

• Iron: The need for gland increases significantly during pregnancy, since it is necessary for the formation of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the fetus and mother. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, dizziness and increased risk of premature birth. Recommended dosage – 27 mg per day.

• Calcium: It is necessary for the formation of the bones and teeth of the fetus. If the mother does not receive enough calcium, the body will extract it from her own bones, which can lead to osteoporosis in the future. Recommended dosage – 1000 mg per day.

• Vitamin D: Promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphorus necessary for the healthy development of the bones and teeth of the fetus. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with the increased risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and low weight at birth. Recommended dosage – 600 IU per day.

• Iodine: It is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland, which regulates the metabolism. The deficiency of iodine can lead to mental retardation in the child and hypothyroidism in the mother. Recommended dosage – 150 μg per day.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): Important for the development of the brain and eye of the fetus. DHA can also reduce the risk of premature birth and postpartum depression. Recommended dosage-200-300 mg DHA per day.

• Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system, promotes the absorption of iron and protects the cells from damage. Recommended dosage – 85 mg per day.

• Vitamin B12: It is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and maintaining the nervous system. Recommended dosage – 2.6 μg per day.

• Zinc: It is important for the immune system and cell growth. Recommended dosage – 11 mg per day.

• Kholin: Plays an important role in the development of the brain and the nervous system of the fetus. Recommended dosage – 450 mg per day.

3. Factors affecting the cost of vitamins for pregnant women

The cost of vitamin complexes for pregnant women can vary depending on several factors:

• Brand: Famous brands, as a rule, have a higher price than less known analogues. This is due to the cost of marketing, research and development.

• Composition: Complexes containing more vitamins and minerals are usually more expensive. Also, the shape of vitamins affect the price (for example, methylated forms of B vitamins are considered more bioavailable and can be more expensive).

• Output form: Tablets, capsules, chewing tablets, powders and liquids – each form has its own cost of production and packaging, which is reflected at the final price.

• Dosage: Complexes with higher dosages of vitamins and minerals can cost more.

• Additional ingredients: Some vitamins for pregnant women contain additional ingredients, such as probiotics, prebiotics, ginger (to facilitate nausea), which also affects the price.

• Place of purchase: Vitamins can differ in pharmacies, healthy food stores, online stores and other retail outlets.

• Producer country: Vitamins produced in countries with more stringent quality standards can cost more.

• Availability of quality certificates: The availability of GMP (good manufactoring practice) or other quality signs may indicate a higher price, but also a more reliable product.

• Marketing promotions and discounts: Manufacturers and sellers often hold promotions and offer discounts on vitamins for pregnant women, which can significantly reduce the purchase price.

4. Ways to save on vitamins for pregnant women without prejudice to health

• Consultation with a doctor: Before buying vitamins, be sure to consult a doctor. He will be able to evaluate your individual needs and recommend the optimal complex of vitamins and minerals, as well as the necessary dosages. You should not prescribe vitamins yourself, since an excess of some substances can be harmful.

• Blood test: For a more accurate determination of deficiency of vitamins and minerals, you can take a blood test. This will help to avoid unnecessary purchases and focus on those substances that the body really needs.

• The choice of monopolists instead of complex vitamins: In some cases, especially if certain substances are detected, it can be more profitable to buy individual vitamins and minerals (monopoline) instead of complex vitamins. For example, if you need only folic acid and iron, there is no need to buy an expensive complex containing many other components.

• Comparison of prices in different pharmacies and online stores: Prices for the same product can differ significantly in different retail outlets. Use online services to compare prices and choose the most profitable offers.

• Buying large packages: Often the purchase of large packages of vitamins is more profitable than buying several small ones. However, make sure that the expiration date allows you to use all the tablets before its expiration.

• Using promotional codes and coupons: Many online stores offer promotional codes and coupons for vitamins. Subscribe to the mailing list of stores you are interested in to keep abreast of promotions and discounts.

• Buying vitamins during sales: During large sales, such as Black Friday or Cyberpolonal, you can purchase vitamins for pregnant women with a significant discount.

• Replacing expensive brands with analogues: There are less well -known brands offering vitamins with a similar composition and dosage at a more affordable price. Pay attention to the composition and availability of quality certificates.

• Consideration of alternative forms of release: In some cases, cheaper forms of release (for example, tablets instead of capsules) can be equally effective. However, take into account individual tolerance.

• Appeal to pregnant women support programs: In some countries, there are state or charitable programs that provide free or preferential vitamins for pregnant women. Find out if there are such programs in your region.

• Proper nutrition: Do not forget about the importance of a balanced diet. A properly composed diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low -fat meat and fish can provide the body with many necessary vitamins and minerals.

5. Alternative sources of vitamins and minerals: food during pregnancy

A balanced diet plays a key role in providing the body of a pregnant woman with the necessary vitamins and minerals. Vitamin complexes should be considered as an addition to a healthy diet, and not as its replacement.

• Folic acid: Green leaf vegetables (spinach, broccoli, salad-linen), legumes (beans, lentils, peas), avocados, citrus fruits, enriched grain products.

• Iron: Red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, green leafy vegetables, dried fruits (raisins, dried apricots), enriched grain products. To improve iron absorption, it is recommended to use it along with products rich in vitamin C.

• Calcium: Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese), green leafy vegetables (cabbage, broccoli), tofu, enriched soy milk, fish with bones (sardines, salmon).

• Vitamin D: Bold fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), egg yolks, enriched dairy products, mushrooms grown under ultraviolet light. It is important to remember that the main source of vitamin D is sunlight.

• Iodine: Iodized salt, sea fish, seaweed, dairy products.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): Fat fish (salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel), fish oil, linseed seed, chia seeds, walnuts.

• Vitamin C: Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), kiwi, strawberries, pepper (especially red), broccoli, tomatoes.

• Vitamin B12: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, enriched plant products (for example, soy milk). Vegetarians and vegans are recommended to take vitamin B12 additives.

• Zinc: Meat, poultry, seafood, nuts, seeds, legumes, whole grains.

• Kholin: Eggs, meat, poultry, fish, legumes, cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower).

6. The risks of independent intake of vitamins

Despite the availability of vitamin complexes, independent intake of vitamins during pregnancy can be dangerous.

• Overdose by vitamins: Excess of some vitamins and minerals (for example, vitamin A, vitamin D, iron) can be toxic and lead to undesirable side effects, both for the mother and the fetus.

• Interaction with drugs: Vitamins can interact with other drugs that a pregnant woman takes, changing their effectiveness or increasing side effects.

• Camoufting of deficiency symptoms: Reception of polyvitamin complexes can mask the symptoms of deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals, which complicates diagnosis and treatment.

• Inappropriate composition: Some vitamin complexes may contain ingredients that are not recommended during pregnancy (for example, high doses of vitamin A in the form of retinol).

• Lack of quality control: Not all vitamin complexes presented on the market meet quality standards. Reception of poor -quality vitamins can be not only ineffective, but also harmful to health.

Therefore, before taking any vitamins during pregnancy, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

7. How to read vitamins labels for pregnant women

Understanding the information indicated on the label of vitamins will help make a conscious choice.

• List of ingredients: Carefully study the list of ingredients and make sure that the composition contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals in the recommended dosages.

• The form of vitamins: Pay attention to the form of vitamins (for example, folic acid in the form of methylplate, vitamin D3 instead of D2). Some forms of vitamins are better absorbed by the body.

• Dosage: Make sure that the dosage of each vitamin and mineral corresponds to your individual needs and recommendations of the doctor.

• Recommendations for use: Follow the recommendations for the use indicated on the label.

• Warning: Carefully read warnings and contraindications.

• Best before date: Check the expiration date of the product.

• Quality certificates: Pay attention to the availability of quality certificates (for example, GMP).

• Information about the manufacturer: Study information about the manufacturer and its reputation.

8. Vitamins for pregnant women: overview of popular brands and price comparison

On the market there are many brands of vitamins for pregnant women. Consider some of the popular ones and compare their approximate prices:

(Note: Prices are indicated and may vary depending on the place of purchase and shares.)

• Elevit Pronatal: One of the most popular complexes of vitamins and minerals for pregnant women. Contains folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D and other necessary substances. Price for 30 tablets: from 800 rubles.

• Femibion 1 and Femibion 2: Designed taking into account trimesters of pregnancy. Femibion 1 is recommended to be taken from the moment of pregnancy planning and during the first trimester, and Femibion 2 – from the second trimester to the end of breastfeeding. Contain folic acid in the form of metapholin, B vitamins, iodine and other important components. Price for 30 tablets (femibion 1 or 2): from 900 rubles.

• Vitrum Prenatal: Contains a set of vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain the health of the mother and the development of the fetus. Price for 30 tablets: from 600 rubles.

• Complete Trimester 1, 2, 3: Designed taking into account trimesters of pregnancy. Contains the necessary vitamins and minerals in dosages corresponding to the needs of each trimester. Price for 30 tablets (trimmarum 1, 2 or 3): from 400 rubles.

• Mamino Alphabet Health: Vitamin-mineral complex, designed specifically for pregnant and lactating women. It has a separate technique of pills containing different groups of vitamins and minerals for better absorption. Price for 60 tablets: from 500 rubles.

• Solgar Prenatal Nutrients: Vitamin-mineral complex of premium class. Contains vitamins and minerals in bio-access forms, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Price for 60 capsules: from 2500 rubles.

• Nature Made Prenatal Multi + DHA: A popular complex of vitamins and minerals with the addition of DHA. Price for 60 capsules: from 1,500 rubles.

When choosing a vitamin complex, pay attention not only to the price, but also to the composition, dosage and the availability of the necessary quality certificates.

9. Myths about vitamins for pregnant women

There are many myths about vitamins for pregnant women who can mislead future mothers.

• Myth 1: Vitamins for pregnant women are necessary for all women.

Reality: Not all pregnant women need vitamin complexes. If a woman eats properly and does not have a deficiency of vitamins and minerals, taking additional vitamins can be unnecessary.

• Myth 2: The more vitamins, the better.

Reality: an excess of some vitamins and minerals can be harmful to the health of the mother and fetus. It is important to observe the recommended dosages and not exceed them.

• Myth 3: Vitamins for pregnant women are eliminated from toxicosis.

Reality: Vitamins can help alleviate some symptoms of toxicosis, such as nausea and vomiting, but they are not a panacea.

• Myth 4: Vitamins for pregnant women guarantee the birth of a healthy child.

Reality: Vitamins play an important role in the development of the fetus, but they are not the only factor that determines the health of the child. Genetics, mother’s lifestyle and other factors are also important.

• Myth 5: Dear vitamins are always better than cheap.

Reality: The price is not always an indicator of quality. It is important to pay attention to the composition, dosage and availability of quality certificates, and not just the brand and price.

• Myth 6: taking vitamins for pregnant women can harm.

Reality: with proper use and observance of recommended dosages, vitamins for pregnant women are safe and useful for the health of the mother and fetus. However, before starting the reception, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

10. Conclusion: an individual approach and a conscious choice

The cost of vitamins for pregnant women can become a significant cost of expenses, but there are many ways to save no health. The main thing is to consult a doctor, eat in a balanced, carefully study the composition of vitamin complexes and choose the best option in terms of price and quality. Remember that each organism is individual, and what is suitable for one woman may not come up with another. Listen to your body, consult a doctor and make a conscious choice based on your needs and capabilities.