The Importance of Prenatal Vitamins By Amanda Ciani
A s soon as two lines show up on a pregnancy test, it is oh-so tempting to go to the store and do a little shopping for baby! Tiny little socks, crisp white onesies, baby’s first teddy bear! If you aren’t taking them yet, be sure to toss some prena- tal vitamins in the cart, too. Good for baby and mom during pregnancy, taking prenatal vitamins is an act of love that keeps both mom and baby healthy for three trimesters and beyond! When to Start a Prenatal Vitamin Considering starting or expanding your family? Go ahead and start taking a prenatal vitamin. Mayo Clinic notes that, “Ideally, you’ll start taking prenatal vitamins before conception,” explaining that, “The baby’s neural tube, which
becomes the brain and spinal cord, develops during the first month of preg- nancy—perhaps before you even know that you’re pregnant.” Prenatal Vitamin Benefits for Mom Growing a human takes a lot of work, and pregnancy puts a woman’s body systems into overdrive. Prenatal vitamins are designed to include ingredients that aid in maternal health during pregnancy. ■ Choline: Supports brain function and mood regulation. ■ Folic Acid: Promotes cell growth. ■ Iron: Supports increased blood volume during pregnancy, can help prevent anemia, and helps reduce fatigue. ■ Vitamin A: Promotes healthy skin,
protects against infections, and is essential for maintaining eyesight. ■ Vitamin B: Supports metabolism, prevents fatigue, strengthens immune system, and supports brain function and mood regulation. ■ Vitamin C: Helps the body absorb iron, promotes healthy skin, and supports the immune system. ■ Calcium and Vitamin D: Prevents maternal bone loss, reduces the risk of pre-eclampsia, supports a healthy immune system. Prenatal Vitamin Benefits for Babies From zygote to blastocyst to embryo to fetus, in-utero babies grow rapidly— exponentially each day! The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecolo- gists notes that during pregnancy, “Eat-
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