Prenatal Vitamins Vs. Standard Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins typically contain more folic acid and iron than do standard adult multi-vitamins.
- Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects.
- Iron supports the baby’s growth and development and helps prevent anaemia.
Additionally, research suggests that prenatal vitamins decrease the risk of low birth weight. A prenatal vitamin should contain:
- Folic acid — 400 to 800 micrograms
- Calcium — 250 milligrams
- Iron — 30 milligrams
- Vitamin C — 50 milligrams
- Zinc — 15 milligrams
- Copper — 2 milligrams
- Vitamin B6 — 2 milligrams
- Vitamin D — 400 international units.
Side Effects:
- Nausea: If this happens to you, take your prenatal vitamin with a snack or before you go to bed at night.
- Constipation: To prevent this –
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Include more fibre in your diet.
- Include physical activity in your daily routine, as long as your doctor at Motherhood is OK.
Remember, prenatal vitamins are a complement to a healthy diet — not a substitute for good nutrition.
For further details or queries , kindly contact us at tomotherhoodindia@gmail.com
