A balanced diet doesn’t necessarily provide adequate nutrients for a mother-to-be.
Growing a tiny human requires extra nutrition. Prenatal supplements are a good source of vitamins and minerals to assist with the healthy formation of an unborn baby. But, it can be tough to know what to look for in a prenatal vitamin.
Folic acid helps reduce birth defects. Women of child-bearing age should have 400mcg of folic acid daily. When your pregnancy is confirmed, increase your intake to 800 mcg of folic acid.
Your vitamin requirements typically change once you become pregnant. Your iron, vitamin D and folic acid needs double. Calcium and phosphate needs go up by fifty percent. B-complex vitamins go up by at least one third. Zinc and riboflavin increase by 25 percent. Only vitamin A doesn't need to be increased.
Listen in as Dr. Mark de Fazio discusses what your prenatal vitamins should contain and when you should start taking them.
Health Topics A-Z
Get the Scoop on Prenatal Vitamins
Air Date: 5/5/16
Duration: 10
Host: Melanie Cole, MS
