The Primary Components Of Prenatal Vitamins
Women who are pregnant or are planning to become pregnant will often take prenatal vitamins to ensure that they are getting all of the nutrients that their bodies need. These vitamins are often sold over the counter, but some are available by prescription only. Regular vitamins that are taken once per day have different components and nutrients than those for pregnant women. The main nutrients that pregnant women need to guarantee they get more of are folic acid, calcium, and iron.
One of the most common supplements that is recommended for pregnant women is folic acid since it is necessary to avoid problems with the neural tube's development. This is the beginning of development for the baby, and it is made up of the brain and spinal cord. Many problems with the development of the neural tube will occur within the first month after conception. The minimum amount of folic acid that is recommended during these early stages of pregnancy is 400 mcg per day.
Apart from folic acid, women will also need an extra amount of calcium on a daily basis. The calcium is more beneficial to the mother than for the baby. Nutrients from the mother's body will be taken to assist the growing body of the baby. As this happens, the mother may lose bone density because of the lack of calcium. The prenatal vitamin makes certain that enough calcium and vitamin D are incorporated in the diet, but milk is another great source. The body calls for vitamin D along with the calcium so that it is able to absorb the calcium.
An iron supplement is valuable to the mother because she will need an increased supply of oxygen during her pregnancy. Iron is required for red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. During pregnancy, a mother's blood supply will increase which means that additional iron will be needed in the diet.
The recommended minimal amount when choosing a prenatal vitamin would be 400 mcg folic acid, 200-300 mg calcium, and 17 mg of iron. There are several foods that are natural sources for each of these nutrients, but the vitamin ensures that there are no gaps in the diet and everything is covered.
Various types of prenatal vitamins have the unwanted side effects of nausea in some women. If one variety is not working for you then don't be afraid to switch to a different brand. A woman should always consult with her doctor to decide what the best option for her would be.
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