When you are pregnant, you require extra nutrients both for yourself and for your baby, such as calcium, required for your baby's skeletal development, and folic acid, which is crucial to avoid several birth defects.
Benefits
Prenatal vitamins can ensure that your baby is receiving enough nutrients for him to develop properly. Moms to be, along with their unborn children, require more of certain nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition states that iron supplementation through pregnancy is important, particularly for women who develop anemia.
Features of Prenatal Supplements
Prenatal vitamins typically contain many vitamins and minerals needed for good overall health. Moms to be require extra calcium, (to help prevent them from developing pregnancy-induced hypertension) iron (to prevent anemia) and folic acid. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition stated that supplementing with folic acid during pregnancy can help prevent neural tube defects, primarily spina bifida and anencephalus.
Time Frame
If you plan to have a family someday, you should begin to take prenatal supplements well before you become pregnant, since many birth defects can occur early in a pregnancy. You need to make sure you're getting an adequate intake of essential nutrients every day for a healthy baby and a healthy pregnancy.
Method
Generally, prenatal supplements are best taken with lots of water or juice, to prevent stomach upset. Try and avoid taking your supplements with coffee, tea, or milk, since these liquids can interfere with nutrient absorption.
Cautions
You should avoid beginning a vitamin regimen without speaking with your obstetrician first. Your obstetrician can help formulate a supplement regimen that's best for you and your baby.
Tags: , folic acid, birth defects, healthy pregnancy, help prevent, prenatal supplements