If you are trying to conceive, ttc, then you definitely want to begin taking prenatal vitamins a couple months ahead of time. Not only is a healthy diet important, but so is taking prenatal vitamins so you ensure your body has all of the minerals and vitamins needed to support a healthy pregnancy. It’s really important to take these prenatal vitamins to ensure that any nutrients or vitamins you might be short on are filled by the vitamins.

Many women wonder why they need prenatal vitamins if they are already taking a multivitamin. Basically, prenatal vitamins are designed for pregnant women. So, they contain more of the vitamins and minerals pregnant women need like folic acid, iron, and calcium.

If you are wondering why it matters then you should know that prenatal vitamins can prevent some birth defects. For example, women who do not receive enough folic acid may have a baby with a neural tube defect. This is an abnormality that can affect the spinal cord and the brain and can be quite serious. Folic acid also promotes a healthy birth weight and helps prevent preterm delivery. Extra calcium is needed to help bother mother and baby with strong bones and teeth. Women will also need extra calcium to promote her muscular, circulatory, and nervous system. Iron is important because it helps both mother and baby with blood and muscle support. Adequate iron helps prevent low birth weight and preterm delivery as well.

Many women claim to have healthier hair and nails when taking prenatal vitamins. However, these benefits have not been proven scientifically. Although, it does seem to have that affect on many women!

Most prenatal vitamins do not have omega-3 fatty acids so it is important for pregnant women to eat plenty of fish or take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement to support the baby’s brain development.

Posted in Trying to Get Pregnant

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