Prenatal vitamins and supplements are indicated for women who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or nursing. Many nutrients are needed in larger quantities to meet the demands of pregnancy and lactation. Iron and folate are nutrients that can have detrimental ramifications on the mother and developing infant if not consumed in the required quantity. Since it is difficult to meet the required intake through diet alone, a prenatal supplement is recommended.
Supplement Facts Panel
The Supplement Facts panel on a label provides information about the type and quantity of vitamins, minerals, or other ingredients present in the supplement. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires manufacturers to list vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and calcium on the facts panel, but other vitamins and minerals are listed at the discretion of the manufacturing company -- it isn't required.
Folate
Folate deficiency has been linked to neural tube defects in infants. A minimum intake of 600 mcg daily of synthetic folic acid through fortified foods and supplements will reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Women of child-bearing age, women trying to conceive, and women who are pregnant should consume this quantity, according to the March of Dimes. The supplement fact panel will list the micrograms present in the product.
Iron
During pregnancy, iron requirements drastically increase due to the expanded blood volume and red blood cells, formation of the placenta and anticipated blood loss during delivery. A supplement should contain 27 mg of iron to boost iron stores in both the mother and developing infant and to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a nutrient with important functions in the body, including facilitating the absorption of calcium. Low blood levels of vitamin D in the mother can result in decreased absorption of calcium in the developing infant, which can lead to poor bone and teeth development. Recently the Institute of Medicine increased the Recommended Dietary Allowance of vitamin D to 600 IU daily during pregnancy and lactation.
References
- "American Dietetic Association"; Position of the American Dietetic Association: Nutrition and Lifestyle for a Healthy Pregnancy Outcome; 2008
- The Journal of Nutrition: "The American Society for Nutritional Sciences"; Pregnancy and Lactation: Physiological Adjustments, Nutritional Requirements and the Role of Dietary Supplements; Mary Frances Picciano; June 2003
- FDA: Chapter IV. Nutrition Labeling; April 2005
- National Institute of Health Office of Dietary Supplements; Vitamin D Fact Sheet; June 2011
- March of Dimes: Take Folic Acid Before You're Pregnant; February 2010
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