Are prenatal vitamins necessary? What's there in a prenatal supplement that I can't get from food? How do I choose a prenatal supplement that's right for me? With similar questions running on your mind, you are sceptical and want to know more. Never take your chances when it comes to your health and well-being. Maintaining proper diet and nutrition is a part to ensure good health and prevent disease.
Pregnancy is the time when women must ensure to take adequate nutrients to the baby growing inside and her own health. Yet as per research, more than 20 to 30 percent of pregnant women have a vitamin and mineral deficiency despite including a wide variety of food, including meat, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes. Without the necessary supplements, 75% of them have a deficit of at least 1 vitamin. Thus, when you take a prenatal vitamin, it makes a good sense for the mother and the baby.
What prenatal vitamins consist of?
Most of the prenatal vitamins in the market are specially formulated with an increased level of nutrients that are essential to support a healthy pregnancy and to reduce the risk of deficiency syndromes in both the mother and the child. A list of prenatal vitamins includes calcium, iron, folic acid, DHA and zinc. Think of it as an insurance policy to make sure you get the right amount of certain crucial nutrients during pregnancy.
Why take prenatal vitamins?
Taking a prenatal vitamin can be even more beneficial to those who have health issues, dietary restrictions, and pregnancy complications. Your body will need twice as much of iron when you are pregnant to help build oxygen to the growing baby. About 1000 mg of calcium will be needed per day as the baby develops its bones, teeth, muscles. Vitamin D will help the body to absorb calcium. Iodine will be needed for the development of the baby’s brain and nervous system. A prenatal supplement can also provide a big nutritional boost for pregnant women who suffer from nausea and vomiting due to morning sickness.
When to take prenatal vitamins
The ideal time to begin taking prenatal vitamins is a few months before you want to conceive. Start taking them the moment you stop using birth control and begin to try in earnest. Taking folic acid, in general, is best for women of childbearing age even when they are not planning to get pregnant. And if you wish to breastfeed your baby, your gynaecologist might recommend that you continue taking prenatal vitamins even after your baby is born. Also, Prenatals can reduce the risk of a wide range of serious birth defects.
How to Take Prenatal Vitamins
Many prenatal vitamins brands in India come in different forms too like pills, capsules, liquids etc. Make sure you discuss it with your paediatrician or midwife to know how to take and follow the instruction well to gain maximum benefits. A good supplement is sure to provide you all the essential nutrients that you may not be able to get from your diet. Keep your options open and try different brands till you find the right prenatal supplement you can take.
