Last updated on September 11th, 2024 at 02:20 pm
Pregnant women want what’s best for themselves and their children during this pivotal time of life. Vitamin supplementation is often recommended. But what are the best prenatal vitamins?
Today’s physicians often recommend docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in prenatal vitamins. This omega-3 fatty acid plays a role in brain and eye development during pregnancy. It may also reduce the risk of preterm birth.
Why are Prenatal Vitamins Important?
Mineral levels often decrease during pregnancy. Pregnant women may experience lower levels of iron, selenium, magnesium, zinc, and calcium. These deficiencies can lead to pregnancy complications and infant health issues. Prenatal vitamins ensure women achieve mineral levels that support healthy pregnancies.
Research outlines recommended daily doses of each essential mineral based on FDA recommendations, tolerance limits, and effects on pregnancy. However, it warns that the mineral content in each supplement varies. Women must consider the contents of their supplements to ensure optimal health.
What is DHA in Prenatal Vitamins?
Today’s doctors have found that DHA is another important prenatal vitamin component. This fatty acid aids infants’ brain, eye, and nervous system development. It also prevents prematurity, ensures a healthy birth weight, and reduces the risk of postpartum depression in new mothers.
DHA supports a baby’s health in each pregnancy trimester. It aids with fetal brain development in the first trimester. It continues to provide support through the second trimester aiding with the development of:
· The cerebrum which is tied to cognitive function
· The cerebellum which is responsible for motor control
· Brain stem which keeps the body alive
The supplement continues to support brain development in the third trimester when brain growth is at its peak.
Studies on DHA in Prenatal Vitamins
Several studies back the importance of DHA in infant development. A review emphasizes the importance of DHA, choline, and vitamin D in prenatal vitamins- three supplements often overlooked.
A 2023 study examines DHA’s potential to reduce pregnancy complications. It has demonstrated significant effects in reducing preterm birth and gestational diabetes mellitus and may also aid with preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and postpartum depression.
A 2022 study examined DHA’s effects on heart rate and heart rate variability in pregnant women. It was found to increase vagal tone which plays a key role in heart rate, respiration, and other bodily functions.
What are the Best Prenatal Vitamins?
Several prenatal supplements contain DHA and recommended minerals. Here are some to consider adding to your diet:
· Ortho Molecular Prenatal Complete: Ortho Molecular provides highly effective, evidence-based supplements. Its Prenatal Complete features a high-quality mineral and nutrient blend. The supplement’s DHA concentration supports mothers and babies through each pregnancy phase.
· Xymogen Prenatal Essentials: Xymogen offers pure potent vitamins and supplements. Its Prenatal Essentials contain bioavailable and gentle minerals. It supports maternal nutrition during pregnancy and a healthy pregnancy outcome.
· Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA: Nordic Naturals specializes in omega-3 supplementation. Its Prenatal DHA is derived from sustainable microalgae. It supports brain, eye, and nervous system development in infants.
So what are the best prenatal vitamins? Women should seek out prenatal multivitamins with the recommended amounts of essential nutrients, such as folate, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E, and DHA. They will help ensure proper infant development during pregnancy.
FAQs
Do doctors recommend prenatal vitamins?
Pregnant women have extra nutritional needs. It can be difficult for them to get key nutrients from food alone. Doctors typically prescribe prenatal vitamins or multivitamins with folic acid to ensure a well-rounded diet.
Is It Better to Take Prenatals in the Morning or Night?
There is no best time of day to take prenatal vitamins. However, experts recommend taking them with meals that contain the most fat to better absorb fat-soluble nutrients. Taking prenatal vitamins with a meal can also reduce the nausea some pregnant women experience when consuming supplements.
Can prenatal vitamins cause weight gain?
Some women may experience weight gain when taking prenatal vitamins, usually because the vitamins increase water retention or cause a hormonal shift. However, in most instances, prenatal vitamins support weight loss.
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