It is important to eat a balanced and nutritious diet for everyone, but this is especially the case for women before and during pregnancy. Even the healthiest diets may be lacking in essential vitamins. Most doctors recommend prenatal vitamins to ensure that both mother and baby receive all the nutrients they need. Folic acid, iron, calcium and vitamin C are pivotal to a baby's growth even before and during pregnancy. The following steps will help you choose the right prenatal vitamin for you.
1. It's important to discuss with your doctor what nutrients you need in a prenatal vitamin. Make sure you discuss any family history of birth defects as this kind of information may affect the type of vitamin he or she recommends. Your nutritional needs and those of your baby may be differing during pregnancy. Take your time and choose the proper prenatal vitamin for you.
2. Most obstetricians recommend extra folic acid, vitamins A and D, iron to aid in oxygen production in the blood, and calcium to help prevent bone density loss. A recent Canadian study revealed that pregnant women should take 4,000 units of Vitamin D every day. The study found that women in its 4,000-IU-a-day group had half the risk of premature delivery than women who took just 400 IU of vitamin D daily. Take time to research vitamins and minerals that are especially important for women during pregnancy and be aware of their benefits.
3. Have a good understanding of the different kinds of prenatal vitamins or supplements available to you and what they contain. Be sure to shop around at your local Pharmacies, drop by the Nutritional store on the corner and don't forget to check out the health stores.
4. In general, it is recommended that pregnant women take in 4000 IU of vitamin D; 30 mg of iron; 4000 IU of vitamin D; 4,000 IU of vitamin A; 300 mg of calcium and between 800 and 1,000 mcg of folic acid daily. It is known that Folic Acid reduces the chances of having a baby with birth defects, namely Spina Bifida. You will find, most of the aforementioned vitamins and minerals are available in most over the counter prenatal vitamins you find these days.
5. When considering a supplement or prenatal vitamin, most pharmacists will be able to provide you with information about potential side effects or interactions. Be sure to ask your local pharmacist or Doctor any questions you have about prenatal supplements or vitamins and other prescription or over-the-counter medications you may be taking. If your pharmacist tells you of any potential side effects or interactions between medications you are currently taking and ingredients in the prenatal supplement, be sure to inform your obstetrician.
6. A healthy diet is always important. Be sure you are eating plenty of iron-containing leafy greens and vegetables, calcium-rich dairy products and protein. Prenatal vitamins are only a supplement to your healthy eating habits.
7. Always stop taking your prenatal vitamin and consult with your obstetrician if you experience complications, side effects, or changes in your health. Constipation, a result of the high iron content, is common in women taking prenatal vitamins. Manufactures of prenatal vitamins have developed many dosage forms to meet the tolerances and needs of expecting mothers. Never begin a health, diet, or vitamin regimen of any kind without consulting your primary care physician first.
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