Women of childbearing age often have trouble meeting the recommended nutritional requirements essential for their health and well-being. This problem becomes aggravated during pregnancy because of the increase in nutritional demands placed on the body by the burden of pregnancy and the developing fetus. Therefore, prenatal vitamins are an integral part of a healthy pregnancy. While the focus on a healthy varied diet full of fresh fruits and vegetable is important, many women still fall short on the recommendations. A prenatal supplement serves as a last line of defense.
Folate
Folate, or folic acid, is considered among the most important prenatal nutrients that have been studied extensively. The National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements notes that folate is an essential supplement for women who intend to become pregnant and for pregnant women, especially in the period early after the conception. This calls for what is referred to a periconception supplementation of folic acid, i.e. supplementation just before and in the first month after pregnancy starts. Folate, a water-soluble vitamin, is a key vitamin needed for the development of the nervous system of the baby. Low levels of folic acid in the blood of pregnant females has been proven to be a contributing factor in the development of a group of serious congenital anomalies known as neural tube defects. This group comprises malformations of the spine such as spina bifida and malformations of the brain and skull, like anencephaly. Folic acid supplementation has been proven by researchers to significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Pregnant women are advised to aim at 400 micrograms of folic acid per day.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to MayoClinic.com, most standard antenatal vitamins do not include preparations of fish oil, or the essential nutrient omega-3 fatty acids. A pregnant female who does not consume fish regularly because of concern about potential mercurial contamination is advised to supplement her diet with a supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the developing brain of the fetus and helps ensure a healthy neurological development.
Calcium
MayoClinic.com mentions the importance of calcium for the health of the pregnant mother and the baby. The increased calcium requirements during pregnancy are difficult to meet through diet alone. Supplementation is important for the developing fetal skeletal and the mother's bone and teeth calcium reserve.
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