Prenatal vitamins are used to supplement the health of both mother and baby. However, prenatal vitamins may cause unpleasant side effects, such as nausea and constipation. In most cases, taking an over-the-counter fiber supplement can help clear this issue, but for women who do not want to take a supplement, there are many ways to increase your fiber intake while taking prenatal vitamins.
Pregnancy and Consitptation
According to Baby Center, constipation is one of the most common problems during pregnancy, with as many as 50 percent of pregnant women suffering from constipation at some point within pregnancy. Constipation is caused by an increase in the hormone progesterone, which causes the muscles to relax throughout the body; this includes the muscles in the digestive tract. In addition to this, the growing baby may also cause constipation by putting pressure on your rectum.
Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are taken during pregnancy to support the good nutrition and health of both mother and baby. The prenatal vitamin is a multivitamin that combines mineral and water-soluble and fat-soluble vitamins together in a single capsule. Unlike regular multivitamins, prenatal vitamins contain higher levels of calcium, iron and folic acid. Prenatal vitamins may cause constipation due to a higher than normal iron dosage.
Combining Fiber and Prenatal Vitamins
As of 2011, there are no prenatal vitamins that contain a fiber component. If you have constipation due to pregnancy, you may be told to eat foods that contain high fiber levels, such as whole grains and plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Certain over-the-counter fiber supplements may be safe to take during pregnancy. However, do not take anything with your prenatal vitamin without consulting your physician first.
Considerations
Changing your diet too rapidly or increasing the amount of fruit and vegetables in your diet too quickly may result in further constipation or bloating. Try incorporating these into your diet little by little to avoid this. If your prenatal vitamin is causing you to develop constipation, speak to your physician about changing to a different vitamin. Also, drink the recommended six to eight glasses of water per day along with an 8 oz. serving of juice, which may help to ease constipation.
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