Why is it important to take prenatal vitamins?

The important of prenatal vitamins is almost constantly being touted for women hoping to conceive, and those who are already pregnant. Yet many people still wonder if it is truly necessary to take prenatal vitamins, if you already have a healthy diet. Proponents of taking prenatal vitamins, state that when you are planning to conceive a new life, it's especially important that you make sure your body is receiving adequate vitamins, and minerals. Prenatal vitamins also will help to prepare your body for pregnancy, and to support the life that will be growing inside you.

Once you are pregnant, then prenatal vitamins can fill in the gaps that can be in anyone's diet.Pregnant women are often dealing with morning sickness, or have other food aversions that make getting a completely healthy and well-rounded diet difficult.
While it is hoped that most women, will obtain appropriate nutrition from the foods, they eat, this is often just not reality. In addition, iron becomes an issue during pregnancy and is an element for which supplementation is usually important. Especially in the second and third trimester, a pregnant woman's diet is unlikely to provide adequate levels of iron.

Another important consideration for women looking to conceive or those who are pregnant is Folic Acid.It is crucial to have enough Folic Acid, as it helps prevent certain birth defects. Many nutritional experts recommend that Folic acid (Folate) should be taken for at least a minimum of three months before conception. This is because when it is combined with a B group vitamin, (not only before pregnancy, but during); it can significantly reduce the possibility of neural tube defects such as Spina bifida. It is important to keep in mind that this condition can develop in an embryo, very early in pregnancy, and as such, the woman may not even know she is carrying a fetus yet.

Prenatal vitamins are preparations that contain not only the recommended intake of folic acid, but also calcium and iron for women who are trying to conceive, or who are pregnant. Pregnant women not only require more than twice the usual amount of folic acid, but around 50% more iron than normal. In addition maintaining adequate levels of calcium is also vital. Simply taking a prenatal vitamin can help with all of this.

It is recommended that any women considering taking prenatal vitamins should always consult with her health professional, before beginning a course of supplements. You should also keep in mind that if you are taking other medications, there is a chance that your prenatal vitamins, could interact negatively with them. Your doctor can recommend a dosage for you, after taking blood tests, to determine your iron levels. In addition, multiple pregnancies may require specific combinations of vitamins and minerals.

It is also crucial that you take your prenatal vitamins as directed, no just by your physician, but also by following the directions on the bottle. For example, Iron is best absorbed when taken between meals, and its absorption is hindered by caffeine, so you should avoid taking it within one hour of drinking any type of caffeine. The directions on the bottle may give suggestions about the best time of day to take them.
You should realize that taking vitamin supplements, does not guarantee that your intake of essential vitamins, and minerals, will be sufficient. The bottom line is that eating well, and enjoying a balanced diet, is still the best way to keep up your supplies of essential elements. You should never consider vitamin pills, as a substitute for a good, healthy diet. Trying to eat a healthy, and balanced diet, and taking a prenatal vitamin, is the best way to give your baby, a great start in life!