Pregnancy brings many bodily changes to a woman. It is a phase where health is the utmost priority. Doctors prescribe supplements to pregnant women to balance the nutrients and adopt a healthier lifestyle. Supplements during pregnancy are an imperative part of pregnancy to ensure a woman’s sound health and wellbeing.
However, pregnant women can’t take every supplement and need to consult their gynecologist for the one that fits their specific situations.
But first, let’s start with understanding the need for supplements during pregnancy.
Why Do Pregnant Women Need Supplements?
- First and foremost, a mom-to-be requires energy for two people instead of one. That’s why supplements are required to get the desired nutrients and stay healthy.
- The body needs a good amount of nutrients such as fats, proteins, and vitamins during this time. It is not possible to get all these nutrients from the diet alone, supplements are needed to balance them out.
- The ailments and deficiencies of a mother can be easily passed on to the baby. The possibility of this happening is reduced with the use of supplements, allowing for greater newborn health.
- Some women require supplements for their nutritional deficiencies, dietary limitations, and other conditions, such as smoking. Supplements effectively deal with these deficiencies.
What are Safe Supplements?
1. Iron
Moms-to-be need to have a good iron level which is to be significantly maintained throughout the pregnancy as maternal blood volume increases by 45%. Additionally, Anemia during this phase can cause infant anemia and maternal depression. That’s why it is recommended to take 27mg of iron per day that can meet through most prenatal vitamins.
2. Vitamin D
All bodies need Vitamin D, especially during pregnancy, and its lack thereof can increase the risk of preterm birth, cesarean section, and gestational diabetes. Therefore, 600 IU or 15 mcg per day is advised to moms-to-be.
3. Folic Acid
Folic Acid contains Vitamin B that is required for fetal growth and the production of red blood cells.
What are Unsafe Supplements?
1. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an important prenatal vitamin as it can help in fatal vision development. However, it is fat-soluble and the excess of it is stored in the liver. Its accumulation can lead to liver damage, which is why it is considered unsafe.
2. Herbal Supplements
Some herbal supplements such as Yohimbe, red clover, Blue Cohosh, Goldenseal, and others can be potentially dangerous during pregnancy.
3. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is necessary for the body; however, it is not recommended during pregnancy as it can increase the risk of abdominal pain and the premature rupture of the amniotic sack.
The Bottom Line
As an expecting mom, you must be mindful of the fact that every supplement is not safe or beneficial. Some supplements can do bad instead of good to both mother and child. Therefore, you need to consult your gynecologist beforehand. Remember to always purchase supplements from a good brand and never self-prescribe.