Prenatal vitamins are vitamins that are taken before a couple tries to conceive, during pregnancy, and while a mother breastfeeds. They help support a healthy pregnancy and developing child. However, some women find that prenatal vitamins cause unwanted side effects such as constipation, nausea and headaches. Flintstones vitamins, however, are a possible alternative.
Ingredients in Flintstones Vitamins
Flintstones vitamins contain the same type of vitamins and minerals found in prenatals. The only difference, besides that they are made for kids, is that the amount of a few vitamins and minerals are lower than what a prenatal vitamins supply. Flintstones Plus Iron vitamins contain vitamin A, C, D, E, B1, B2, B6, B12, niacin, folic Acid, iron and sodium.
Comparison to Prenatals
According to the book "You: Having a Baby" by Drs. Mehmet Oz and Michael Roizen, prenatals contain upwards of 1,000mcg of folic acid and average around 27mg of iron. Flintstone Plus Iron vitamins only contain 300mcg of folic acid and 15mg of iron.
Reasons to Use Flintstones Vitamins as a Prenatal
People choose to use Flintstones vitamins as a prenatal for various reasons. One reason is that prenatal vitamins are usually large, thereby making them hard to swallow. Since Flintstones vitamins are available as chewable and gummy-bear forms, pregnant women may choose to take those instead. In addition, prenatal vitamins have been known to cause an upset stomach, particularly nausea. This is often due to their high iron contents. Finally, Flintstones vitamins are tasty. They are developed to taste good so children will be eager to take them without giving parents any hassle. The pleasing taste also makes the vitamin experience more pleasant for a pregnant woman who has been battling morning sickness and has food aversions.
Considerations
Before switching to Flintstones vitamins instead of taking prenatal vitamins, talk to your physician. Flintstones vitamins do not contain enough iron that is needed during pregnancy. Thus, your physician may prescribe an iron supplement and request you increase your folic acid intake, since Flintstone vitamins do not contain the same amounts as prenatal vitamins. Your physician will discuss the benefits and risks and help you make the best decision.
References
- Flintstone Plus Iron Vitamins -- Nutritional Information
- "You: Having A Baby"; Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D.; 2009
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