If you’ve visited your OBGYN for your prenatal appointment. Or you are trying to get pregnant. Your doctor has most likely prescribed prenatal vitamins.
While images of a blanket-swaddled newborn might dance in your head amidst many other things. Like bottle versus breastfeeding, what type of maternity clothes, and what names you might choose for your little bundle of joy.
Prenatal vitamins may not be on the top of your list. However, they are a must to help your body get adequate nutrients during pregnancy. If you’re very health conscious and eat the right foods, chances are your body is getting the nutrients.
Some pregnant women experience nausea and sickness due to hormonal changes. Under these circumstances, cravings for certain foods may not be the healthiest. A prenatal vitamin can fill in the gaps, making sure your baby gets all the vitamins he or she needs to grow and thrive.
1. Iodine
Iodine is a mineral found in food. It is essential for your baby's brain and nervous system development. It's also crucial for the proper function of your thyroid. The recommended daily intake of iodine during pregnancy is 220 micrograms. It is one of the most essential nutrients for a fetus's brain development and physical growth. Everything from breathing and heart rate to body weight and muscle strength is on the table. Approximately fifty percent more iodine is required during pregnancy. Getting enough iodine will support a baby's brain health through childhood.
2. Iron
Pregnancy increases the amount of blood in your body by almost 50%, requiring more iron to make more hemoglobin. Iron makes hemoglobin, a protein in the red blood cells that carries oxygen to the tissues. Pregnant women may be prone to anemia. The average iron level is insufficient for pregnant women because the baby shares blood with the mother.
Iron also helps your body deliver enough oxygen to your baby. Pregnant women need about 27 milligrams of iron daily. Prenatal vitamins ensure your body gets an adequate amount of iron.
3. Folic Acid
This B vitamin plays a crucial role in preventing birth defects in the baby's brain and spine, known as neural tube defects. Pregnant women are often recommended to take 400 to 800 micrograms of folic acid daily before conception and throughout pregnancy.
Another essential component of prenatal vitamins is folic acid. Folic acid reduces the risk of birth defects. It is essential for the central nervous system development. Some Doctors advise that women take folic acid a month before getting pregnant.
4. Calcium
Calcium helps your baby develop strong bones and teeth, a healthy heart, nerves, and muscles, and a normal heart rhythm. Bone development peaks at 250 to 350 milligrams daily from mother to unborn baby during the third trimester. Insufficient calcium can cause bone density loss. If a pregnant woman does not consume enough calcium, your body will take what your baby needs.
Prenatal supplements ensure both Mommy and baby get what they need for strong bones. It is recommended that pregnant women consume about 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily.
DHA
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid crucial for a baby's brain development. While it's found in certain types of fish, many women choose to avoid it due to mercury concerns. Therefore, a DHA supplement can be beneficial.
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