Vitamins for pregnant women: what you need to know

Vitamins for pregnant women: what you need to know

Prenatal vitamins: the basis of a healthy pregnancy

Pregnancy is an amazing time that requires increased attention to its health. Proper nutrition plays a key role in the development of a healthy child, and prenatal vitamins become an important addition to the diet. They provide the body of the future mother with the necessary trace elements, which may not be enough even with a balanced diet. However, it is important to understand that prenatal vitamins are not a replacement for a healthy diet, but only its addition. Discussion of taking vitamins with a doctor is mandatory, since only he can determine the individual needs of a woman and choose the optimal complex.

Why are prenatal vitamins so important?

Pregnancy makes increased requirements for the body of a woman. The developing fruit needs a large amount of vitamins and minerals for the formation of organs, bones and nervous system. The deficiency of these substances can lead to serious consequences for both the mother and the child, including:

• Increased risk of congenital defects: The disadvantage of folic acid, for example, significantly increases the likelihood of defects of the nerve tube in the fetus, such as the cleft spine (Spina Bifida).
• Premature birth: The deficiency of certain vitamins and minerals, especially iron and zinc, can increase the risk of premature birth.
• Low birth weight: Insufficient consumption of nutrients to the mother can lead to the birth of a child with low weight, which, in turn, is associated with an increased risk of diseases in the future.
• Pregnancy complications: A deficiency of certain substances can increase the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia and other complications of pregnancy.
• Mother’s health problems: Pregnancy can deplete nutrient reserves in the mother’s body, which can lead to fatigue, anemia, osteoporosis and other health problems.

Prenatal vitamins help replenish these deficits and provide both the mother and the child with the necessary resources for a healthy pregnancy.

Key vitamins and minerals in prenatal vitamins

The composition of prenatal vitamins can vary, but some components are mandatory and play a particularly important role in the development of the fetus and maintaining the health of the mother:

• Folic acid (vitamin B9): It is extremely important to prevent defects in the nervous tube. It is recommended to start taking folic acid a few months before the planned pregnancy and continue during the first trimester. The optimal dose is 400-800 mcg per day. Women with high risk (for example, having a history of the birth of a child with a defect in a nervous tube) may require a higher dose.

• Iron: It is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which transfers oxygen in the blood. During pregnancy, the need for gland increases significantly, since the mother’s body should provide oxygen and nutrients of both herself and the developing fruit. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue and increased risk of premature birth. The recommended dose is 27 mg per day. Iron is better absorbed if you take it with vitamin C.

• Calcium: It is necessary for the development of bones and teeth of the child. If the mother does not receive enough calcium from food, the body will take it from its bones, which can lead to osteoporosis in the future. The recommended dose is 1000 mg per day.

• Vitamin D: Helps the body to absorb calcium and is necessary for the development of the bones and immune system of the child. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and premature birth. The recommended dose is 600 IU per day, but some women may need a higher dose.

• Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA): Important for the development of the brain and eye of the child. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish (for example, salmon, sardines, tuna), but many women do not use a sufficient amount of fish during pregnancy due to fears about the content of mercury. Therefore, additives with omega-3 fatty acids can be useful. Recommended dose DHA-200-300 mg per day. It is important to choose additives that have undergone mercury.

• Iodine: It is necessary for the development of the thyroid gland of the child. Iodine deficiency can lead to mental retardation and other problems of development. The recommended dose is 150 μg per day.

• Kholin: It is important for the development of the brain and nervous system of the child, as well as to prevent defects in the nervous tube. Many prenatal vitamins do not contain choline, so it must be obtained from food or from individual additives. Recommended dose – 450 mg per day.

• Zinc: It is necessary for the growth and development of cells, as well as to maintain the immune system. Zinc deficiency can increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight. The recommended dose is 11 mg per day.

• Vitamin C: It is important for the immune system and helps the body absorb iron. The recommended dose is 85 mg per day.

• B vitamins B (B1, B2, B3, B6, B12): They participate in many important processes in the body, including energy metabolism, the formation of red blood cells and the development of the nervous system.

When to start taking prenatal vitamins?

It is best to start taking prenatal vitamins a few months before the planned pregnancy. This allows you to create a sufficient supply of nutrients in the mother’s body before conception. If the pregnancy has occurred unexpectedly, it is necessary to start taking prenatal vitamins as soon as possible. It is recommended to continue taking prenatal vitamins throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding.

How to choose prenatal vitamins?

The choice of prenatal vitamins is an individual process that should occur under the guidance of a doctor. Here are a few factors that should be taken into account when choosing:

• Composition: Make sure that prenatal vitamins contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals in sufficient doses. Pay attention to the content of folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, iodine and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Output form: Prenatal vitamins are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, chewing tablets and liquids. Choose a form that is convenient for you.

• Tolerance: Some prenatal vitamins can cause side effects, such as nausea, constipation or diarrhea. If you experience side effects, try changing the brand or the form of the release of vitamins.

• Price: The price of prenatal vitamins can vary depending on the brand and composition. It is not necessary to choose the most expensive vitamins. It is important to choose vitamins that contain all the necessary nutrients in sufficient doses and which are suitable for you.

• Reviews: Read the reviews of other women about various brands of prenatal vitamins. This can help you make a more informed choice.

• Doct’s recommendations: The most important factor in choosing prenatal vitamins is the recommendations of your doctor. He will be able to evaluate your individual needs and choose the optimal complex of vitamins.

Side effects of prenatal vitamins

Despite the benefit, prenatal vitamins can cause some side effects, which are usually insignificant and temporary:

• Nausea: Some women experience nausea after taking prenatal vitamins, especially on an empty stomach. To reduce nausea, try taking vitamins during meals or before bedtime.

• Constipation: Iron contained in prenatal vitamins can cause constipation. To prevent constipation, drink a sufficient amount of liquid, eat foods rich in fiber, and do physical exercises.

• Diarrhea: In rare cases, prenatal vitamins can cause diarrhea. If you experience diarrhea, try changing the brand or form of the release of vitamins.

• Change of urine color: Some vitamins, especially vitamin B2 (riboflavin), can paint urine in bright yellow. This is normal and is not a cause for concern.

If you experience any serious or long side effects after taking prenatal vitamins, consult a doctor.

Prenatal vitamins and food: addition, not replacement

It is important to remember that prenatal vitamins do not replace a healthy and balanced diet. They are only an addition to the diet and help to fill in nutrient deficiency. During pregnancy, it is important to adhere to a diverse and nutrient diet, including:

• Fruits and vegetables: Provide the body with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

• Whole grain products: The source of fiber, which is necessary for normal digestion.

• Low -fat meat and fish: Contain protein, iron and other important nutrients.

• Dairy products: Source of calcium and vitamin D.

• Legumes: Contain protein, fiber and iron.

Try to avoid the use of processed products, sweets and carbonated drinks. Drink enough water (at least 8 glasses per day).

Special cases: who needs special prenatal vitamins?

Some women may need special prenatal vitamins with a high content of certain nutrients. These groups include:

• Women with a vegetarian or vegan diet: They may need an additional technique of vitamin B12, iron, calcium, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Women with certain diseases: For example, women with diabetes, celiac disease or other diseases affecting the absorption of nutrients may need special prenatal vitamins.

• Women who previously gave birth to children with defects in the nervous tube: They may need an increased dose of folic acid.

• Women who take certain drugs: Some drugs can affect the absorption of nutrients and require adjustments to the dose of prenatal vitamins.

In these cases, it is important to consult a doctor to choose the optimal complex of vitamins.

Alternatives to prenatal vitamins: folic acid separately

In some cases, a doctor can recommend taking only folic acid, especially if a woman eats well and does not have other risk factors for a nutrient deficiency. Folic acid is the most important vitamin to prevent defects in the nervous tube, and its intake is especially important in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, it is important to understand that taking only folic acid does not provide the body with all the necessary vitamins and minerals, and this decision should be made only after consulting a doctor.

Prenatal vitamins for men: myth or reality?

Although prenatal vitamins are usually recommended for women, men can also benefit from taking certain vitamins and minerals, especially if they plan paternity. Some studies show that certain nutrients, such as zinc, selenium, vitamin C and vitamin E, can improve sperm quality and increase the chances of conception. However, there are no special prenatal vitamins for men. Instead, men are recommended to adhere to a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and take polyvitamins containing the necessary nutrients. It is important to consult a doctor to determine which additives can be useful in each case.

Storage of prenatal vitamins

Proper storage of prenatal vitamins is important for maintaining their effectiveness. Follow these recommendations:

• Store vitamins in a cool, dry place: Avoid storage of vitamins in the bathroom or in the kitchen, where they can be exposed to moisture and heat.
• Keep vitamins in no way for children: Prenatal vitamins contain iron, which can be toxic for children in large doses.
• Do not store vitamins in transparent containers: Light can destroy some vitamins.
• Check the expiration date: Do not take vitamins with an expired expiration date.

Conclusion: investment in the health of the mother and child

Reception of prenatal vitamins is an important investment in the health of the mother and child. They help to provide the body with the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy and the development of the fetus. However, it is important to remember that prenatal vitamins are not a panacea, and they should be part of an integrated approach to a healthy pregnancy, including a balanced diet, regular physical exercises and consultations with a doctor. Feel free to ask your doctor questions about prenatal vitamins and choose those that are best suited to you.