Taking prenatal vitamins is one way a mother-to-be can begin protecting and caring for her child before birth. Among the most important nutrients to consume early is folic acid, a B-vitamin that protects against birth defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Talk to your doctor about your choices before taking prenatal vitamins.
Natural Vs. Synthetic Vitamins
Natural vitamins have their origins in isolated food elements. In comparison, synthetic vitamins come from man-made nutrients, which are created in a laboratory by scientists who reconstruct the molecular structure of the the vitamins. Proponents of natural vitamins say the body recognizes and more readily absorbs the nutrients in natural vitamins. Natural vitamins are thought to be nutritionally superior to synthetic versions due to physiochemical differences, which give the supplements proven clinical advantages, according to a December 2000 study appearing in "Medical Hypothesis."
Essential Nutrients in Pregnancy
Because your nutritional needs change during pregnancy, it's important to choose a prenatal vitamin that contains all the essential components. This is particularly true for women whose diets are not well balanced. Calcium, iron and folic acid are some of the necessary nutrients in pregnancy; they're vital for proper fetal growth and development and crucial to the mother's health as well.
Supplement Dangers
Whether synthetic or natural, dangers exist for women who consume too much of certain nutrients. It's possible to risk your baby's health by consuming more than 100 percent of the RDA, or recommended daily allowance, of certain nutrients, according to the American Pregnancy Association. For this reason, it's best to consult your doctor about the right prenatal vitamin. Together, you can make a safe decision.
Choosing a Product
When choosing a prenatal vitamin, keep in mind the cost differences. Natural vitamins are often more expensive in comparison to their synthetic counterparts. Since natural vitamins are derived from harvested fruits and vegetables, they undergo a more complicated process than do synthetic prenatal vitamins, which are mass produced. Additionally, natural products may be harder to find, as they're generally not available at your local drug store. In either case, find a reputable manufacturer and purchase a product that suits your individual health needs as well as those of your fetus. Always seek your doctor's advice before choosing a supplement.
Member Comments