Benefits Of Prenatal Vitamins & Health Of Hair

Prenatal vitamins are a multivitamin supplement designed for women who are pregnant. They typically contain higher amounts of calcium, folic acid and iron than other multivitamins, as these nutrients are particularly essential for the healthy development of your baby. These vitamins and minerals are also essential for hair growth and maintenance, and taking them may improve the health of your locks. Ask your doctor before you begin taking any new supplements.

Definition and Function

Along with a healthy diet, prenatal vitamins help prevent birth defects, keep your muscular and nervous systems functioning properly and keep your blood and immune system healthy. While you will need a prescription for some prenatal vitamins, others are available over-the-counter. Your doctor may suggest additional supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D, or dietary changes along with these vitamins to ensure you are giving yourself and your baby all the essential nutrients. Because the ingredients in prenatal vitamins may interact with certain conditions and medications, it is important to let your doctor know about any health problems you have or medicines you take before you begin consuming these supplements.

Calcium

Prenatal vitamins contain calcium to keep both your and your baby's bones and teeth strong. They also improve the function of your circulatory system, and proper circulation throughout your body is essential for hair health. Furthermore, your body uses a portion of its calcium to promote healthy cell growth in your hair follicle, which in turn promotes healthy hair growth. The RDA of calcium for pregnant women over the age of 19 is 1,000mg.

Folic Acid

Folic acid, or vitamin B-9, helps prevent abnormalities and defects in your baby's brain and spinal cord. A deficiency can be very harmful to both your baby and yourself, and if you do not get enough of this mineral, you may develop fatigue, anemia, graying hair and even decreased hair growth. Your body uses folic acid to ensure proper cell division in your hair follicles and the subsequent growth of your hair. Pregnant women need 600mcg of folic acid a day.

Iron

Your body needs iron for the development and continued health of your blood and muscle cells, as well as those of your baby. This mineral also helps prevent you from becoming anemic, which is a condition marked by an inadequate amount of healthy red blood cells. Without enough blood cells, your body cannot circulate blood and oxygen properly, which is essential for every bodily function, including hair growth. Pregnant women need 27mg of iron a day.