Vitamins should never be a substitute for healthy eating when you're pregnant, but many doctors suggest women take prenatal vitamins to help them stay healthy during the pregnancy and help assure the health of their babies. As the Mayo Clinic states, prenatal vitamins "help fill any gaps" in your nutrition if you're pregnant or hoping to conceive. Penatal vitamins generally differ from standard multi-vitamins by offering higher doses of folic acid, calcium and iron.
Folic Acid
Folic acid, or folate, is a highly publicized supplement for pregnant women. The Mayo Clinic says folic acid can help prevent neural tube defects, which are serious abnormalities of the brain, such as anencephaly, and the spinal cord, such as spina bifida. The American Pregnancy Association recommends pregnant women get 600 micrograms of folic acid each day. Neural tube defects occur at a very early stage of development, so women who are thinking about becoming pregnant should be concerned about their folic acid intake, too. Many health experts recommend that all women of childbearing age get 400 micrograms of folic acid a day. Foods such as oranges, strawberries, spinach, broccoli, pasta and beans can be good sources of folic acid.
Calcium
Calcium is important for both mother and baby. The Mayo Clinic says calcium promotes strong bones and helps the circulatory, muscular and nervous systems run the way they should. The American Pregnancy Association recommends pregnant women get between 1,000 and 1,300 milligrams of calcium each day. Some good sources of calcium include yogurt, milk, cheddar cheese, soy milk, green leafy vegetables and cereals.
Iron
Both mother and baby will benefit from an adequate intake of iron. Iron is important in the development of blood and muscle cells. The Mayo Clinic says it helps prevent anemia and keeps the count of healthy red blood cells where it should be. The American Pregnancy Association notes that iron also helps to prevent low birth weight and premature delivery. It recommends getting 27 milligrams of iron a day if you're pregnant. You can find iron in foods such as beef, pork, dried beans, spinach, wheat germ and oatmeal.
Vitamins
Don't forget your A, B, C's during pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association recommends Vitamins A and D to promote strong bones and teeth. Vitamin E helps the body form and use red blood cells and muscles. Vitamin C can help the body absorb iron and keep the immune system healthy. Vitamins B1 and B2 are good for energy, while B3 promotes healthy skin, nerves and digestion. Vitamin B6 may help with morning sickness.
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