Folic Acid : Prenatal Vitamins & Supplements

What are prenatal vitamins?

As a mom-to be it is important that you get the nutrients you need for a healthy pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins are multivitamins specifically formulated for women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. They contain a combination of essential vitamins and minerals needed for the healthy development of a fetus, such as folate (folic acid), iron, calcium and choline. In addition to these key nutrients, prenatal vitamins may also contain other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B12, and zinc, which support overall maternal and fetal health during pregnancy.

When should I start taking prenatal vitamins?

It is recommended to start taking prenatal vitamins if you are trying to conceive or when you first find out that you are pregnant. This is because certain nutrients, such as folic acid are critical for the early development of the fetus and it is important to ensure that you have an adequate nutrient intake from the beginning of pregnancy. It is important to continue taking them throughout pregnancy and during breastfeeding, as the nutritional needs of both the mother and the growing fetus change throughout these periods.

Is it ok to take prenatal vitamins if I’m not pregnant?

Pregnant and nursing women require higher levels of some nutrients which could potentially lead to an excess of certain vitamins or minerals in non-pregnant people. It is important to note that prenatal vitamins should not be used as a substitute for a balanced and varied diet. It is generally recommended to obtain nutrients from whole foods whenever possible, as they contain other beneficial compounds that may not be present in supplement form. It’s best to discuss your specific nutritional needs with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine the supplement that is most appropriate for you.

What do prenatal vitamins do?

Prenatal vitamins ensure expectant mothers receive the appropriate amount of nutrients during their pregnancy. Pregnant and lactating women need more vitamins and minerals to help support the nutrients lost due to their growing fetus or the production of milk. It is also important to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, including prenatal vitamins, as the dosage and specific nutrients needed may vary depending on individual needs and health status.

What is DHA in prenatal vitamins?

DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is important for the healthy development of the brain, eyes, and nervous system in a developing fetus and in infants. DHA is found in high amounts in certain types of fish, such as salmon and tuna however, the American Pregnancy Association recommends that pregnant women should not consume more than two servings of fish per week because of the potential exposure to mercury and other contaminants. There are also vegan prenatal supplements with DHA made from algae.

What are the best prenatal vitamins?

Target carries a wide variety of Prenatal vitamins from popular brands like Olly, One A Day, Nature Made and Vitafusion. Choose between prenatal gummies, softgels, or tablets as well as organic and vegan options.

What are the most important vitamins and minerals during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, there are several vitamins and minerals that are particularly important for the healthy development of the fetus and the well-being of the mother. These include:

- Folic acid is a B vitamin that is essential for the proper development of the neural tube, which forms the baby’s brain and spinal cord.

- Iron is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and is important for the adequate oxygen supply to the developing fetus.

- Calcium is needed for the development of the baby’s bones, teeth, and heart.

- Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and is essential for the healthy development of the baby’s bones and teeth.

- Vitamin B12 is essential for the production of red blood cells and the proper functioning of the nervous system.

- Vitamin C helps the body absorb iron and is important for the production of collagen, which helps in the development of the baby’s skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels.

What are postnatal vitamins?

Nutrient needs for post-natal and breastfeeding women remain high so many women opt to continue taking their prenatal vitamins after birth, however the demand for some nutrients like iron decrease postpartum so there are specially formulated vitamins for this stage as well. Postnatal vitamins typically contain higher levels of certain nutrients, such as iron, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, which are important for maternal health and breastfeeding. They may also contain other nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to support infant development and brain function.

Browse through a large collection of prenatal vitamins & supplements to find the right one for you.