Carter takes this advice one step further, and suggests that “women who are trying to conceive start taking a vitamin several months ahead of time to be sure the body has adequate stores of these vitamins and minerals.” To ensure you’re taking the right dosage, closely follow directions and the recommended daily requirement listed.
What should you be wary of when taking a prenatal vitamin?
“Vitamins are essential nutrients that keep the body healthy, but it is possible to have too much of a good thing,” cautions Shepherd, who recommends that her patients consult with their doctor and purchase supplements from a reputable source—not all supplements are created equal, after all. DuBoise’s motivation to make a clean prenatal vitamin was driven by the fact that the supplement industry is largely unregulated, and it’s possible that common vitamins on the market can contain cheap, toxic fillers and are manufactured with chemical solvents. “It’s terrifying for the average person, but even scarier while pregnant!” says DuBoise. The bottom line is: Before you take any prenatal supplements, discuss them with your doctor, and do your research.
What other practices should you consider alongside a prenatal vitamin?
First, it must be repeated that diet should be the primary source of nutrients and prioritized as such. “Healthy whole foods like vegetables and fruit contain much more than just the common vitamins and minerals we all know about,” explains Marlowe. “They also contain powerful antioxidants and beneficial phytochemicals that work synergistically to support our health, as well as fiber which aids digestion.” Additionally, keeping blood sugar stable is especially important during pregnancy. “Nausea can be caused by low blood sugar, so protein, whether organic animal protein or plant-based, is important,” says Marlowe. “Make sure you have enough, especially at night, to help balance blood sugar.”
Along with nutrition, it is important to develop a regular exercise routine throughout your pregnancy. “Exercise encourages good cardiovascular health and can aid in the labor and delivery process,” says Shepherd. “A few types of exercise I love for my pregnant mamas are walking, prenatal yoga, and low impact strength training.” But remember: no fuel equals no energy. “One of the best ways to make exercising during pregnancy possible is making sure to fuel your body with the appropriate nutrients!” says Shepherd. The bottom line is that no prenatal vitamin will compensate for a poor diet, inadequate sleep, not getting enough exercise, and high levels of stress. During pregnancy, prenatal vitamins should be part of a 360-degree approach to well-being for mother and child, and are best taken under the supervision of a doctor with science-backed ingredients.
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