Pregnancy and Vitamins

Nowadays it is pretty much accepted that pregnancy and vitamins go hand in hand. In fact, there has been a growth in the industry providing vitamins to pregnant women in the last decade or so. It is also fair to say, that vitamins will be recommended for families that are just planning to become pregnant.

Probably the most important vitamins during pregnancy will be folic acid. All medical doctors will advise expectant mothers or those planning to get pregnant to take folic acid supplements. Folic acid helps to prevent birth defects such as spina bifida. In many western countries, it is advised that all women should consider taking folic acid, regardless of their plans to become pregnant.

The reason why it is important to think about pregnancy and vitamins is because many women do not have a healthy balanced diet. This means that in areas we lack, we need to make it up by taking supplements. Even if we are used to a balanced diet and take in plenty of the right food groups, it is possible we're not taking in enough of certain vitamins, so it always a good idea to have a pregnancy and vitamins strategy.

Pregnancy and vitamins - What should I be looking out for?

We have provided a list below of the more common vitamins that are recommended for women of child bearing age, we have also included the reasons they are important.

Iron - This vitamin is often prescribed by the doctor during pregnancy to combat anemia. It is also used as a precaution against premature delivery.

Zinc - Zinc is used against general health issues. It is thought to help prevent long and stressful labor and premature deliveries.

Folic Acid - Used to prevent spina bifida and other serious birth defects. This vitamin should be taking by all women during pregnancy.

Calcium - Helps to encourage healthy and strong bones in the baby. It is crucial to ensure enough calcium is consumed, otherwise the baby will take calcium from the mother. Calcium deficiencies can sometimes be found in women who do not like milk or dairy products.

Vitamin A - Particularly helpful to encourage strong and healthy cell growth in both mother and baby.

Vitamin D - Many medical doctors encourage expectant mothers to increase their vitamin D intake to lower the chances of Rickets.

Vitamin C - One of the more commonly prescribed vitamins as it is known to improve the immune system, therefore helping to protect against infections or illness.

Vitamin E - Mostly found in cereals, wholemeal bread and is part of the staple dietary requirements that help encourage growth.

As you can see, pregnancy and vitamins is worth thinking about. In almost all cases, any areas of concern will be identified by your medical support team. However, if you're in the planning stages of pregnancy, it is worth having becoming accustomed to the list above.