To support a growing baby for nine months, an expectant mother's body needs essential nutrients such as folic acid, calcium and iron. By eating a healthy balanced diet and taking a prenatal vitamin, many women can get enough vitamins and nutrients they need to support their body and the baby. Prenatal care is also essential in monitoring the health of the mother and baby.
Folic Acid
Folic acid is a vitamin that can help prevent birth defects that can occur in the fetus' brain and spinal cord. The March of Dimes recommends that all women of childbearing age take a vitamin that contains 400 micrograms of folic acid every day. According to the Baby Center, most prenatal vitamins contain between 600 and 1,000 micrograms of folic acid. A woman who has had a child with a neural tube defect should take 4,000 micrograms of folic acid a day. This amount is not sold over the counter and a prescription from a doctor is necessary.
Calcium
Calcium is a mineral that supports healthy bone growth and development in the baby. Calcium is also essential for the expectant mother. According to the Baby Center, calcium is taken from the mother to support the growing baby. Prenatal vitamins generally contain 100 to 200 milligrams of calcium; however, an expectant mother needs 1,000 milligrams of calcium; the same amount as she would if she wasn't pregnant. Dairy products such as milk and yogurt contain about 300 milligrams of calcium or the mother can take calcium supplements if she is allergic to dairy. It is important to consume enough calcium to prevent osteoporosis and to have a healthy baby.
Iron
Iron is a mineral that many women do not get enough of, reports Baby Center. During pregnancy a woman's body produces extra blood to support the fetus and can deplete the mother's iron stores that are in her blood. Pregnant women need 27 milligrams a day for a healthy pregnancy. When women do not receive enough iron, they can develop anemia. Iron-deficiency anemia can occur when there is not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. According to MayoClinic.com, common signs and symptoms include fatigue, pale skin and brittle nails. A doctor will prescribe an iron supplement if the mother is anemic.
