Should You Take Vitamins During Pregnancy?

The vitamin supplements you take during pregnancy are also known as prenatal vitamins. They come in different forms and should be taken daily, starting the day you find out you are pregnant. However, it is normal to ask yourself, “Which vitamins should I take during pregnancy?”

In this article you will learn which vitamins and minerals pregnant women should take and what they are used for. So keep reading!

When is it necessary to take prenatal vitamins?

If you are planning to conceive, taking iodine and folic acid before pregnancy will ensure that you have the right balance of these nutrients. Even if you have health problems such as anemia or if you are malnourished, you need an extra dose of vitamins and minerals.

If you are already pregnant, it is especially important that you take a daily multivitamin. You should of course always do this in consultation with your doctor.

How to take vitamins during pregnancy

You should not go a day without taking vitamins as this will affect the optimal development of your baby. It is recommended to take them in the morning with some orange juice or another citrus fruit to aid absorption. If you find that your stomach is upset after taking them, try taking them with some food.

As we mentioned above, it is essential that your doctor prescribes the correct amounts of vitamins for you to take. Avoid self-medication, as you can endanger not only your own health, but also that of your baby.

Which vitamins should I take during pregnancy?

If you know which vitamins to take during pregnancy, you can prevent certain deficiencies. You should take certain vitamins if, for example:

• Follow a vegan diet
• are lactose intolerant
• Have a chronic illness
• Carrying multiple fetuses with you

You should then ensure that you take the following vitamins:

folic acid

Also called vitamin B9, this nutrient reduces the risk of malformations such as spinal cord defects. It also helps to develop your baby’s cells and prevent brain problems. In addition, it could potentially help protect pregnant women against cancer and also help prevent a very debilitating form of anemia.

Vitamin A

• This vitamin is essential for the development of the baby, it helps tissues such as the skin and mucous membranes to develop properly.
• It also strengthens the bones.
• It performs important functions for the eyesight and the immune and nervous systems.

For better absorption, it is recommended to take it with vitamins B and C.

Taking Vitamin B During Pregnancy

B vitamins, such as B2, B6 and B12, are excellent for normal pregnancy development. They also help to reduce nausea and inflammation in the body.

Vitamin C

• Ideal for mothers who have problems with the rhesus factor.
• Vitamin C acts as a natural antioxidant.

• It boosts your immunity.
• It also helps prevent infections.
• It also facilitates the absorption of iron in the body.
• It aids in the production of collagen, preventing unpleasant stretch marks.

Vitamin D

This vitamin helps to form tooth enamel. At the same time, it helps the body absorb calcium and helps bones to stay strong.

Vitamin E

This vitamin is important because it promotes the muscle tone of the pregnant woman. It also aids in the formation of all tissues. In addition, it is beneficial for the immune system of the future mother.

You should also take iron during pregnancy

As blood volume increases during pregnancy, it is imperative that you take in extra amounts of this mineral.

• Iron contributes to the production of red blood cells that the fetus needs, thus preventing anemia.

• It also reduces the risk of preterm birth.
• It strengthens the muscles.

Calcium

Calcium is essential during pregnancy as it is used to strengthen the teeth and bones of the mother. It is also used to shape the baby’s bones and teeth, as well as the muscles and nervous system.

Iodine

This mineral is required for cell metabolism and for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. It helps in the formation of the nervous system, the development of organs and the intellectual capacity of the baby.

Taking Magnesium During Pregnancy

If you suffer from muscle cramps, it is recommended to take magnesium. The reason for this is that it contributes greatly to muscle function and muscle function decreases during pregnancy.

Knowing which vitamins to take during pregnancy will help you before, during and after pregnancy. This way you will not suffer from a shortage of these essential vitamins.

In addition to being essential to your body, these deficiencies can also make you irritable or fatigued. They can even increase your risk of vaginal infections.