Prenatal Vitamins: Our Checklist

Prenatal vitamins are an absolute necessity when you’re pregnant and even when you’re trying to conceive. Full of necessary vitamins and minerals for both you and baby, they’re something you can’t afford to miss. But it can be hard to decipher what exactly you do need in a prenatal vitamin. While we always suggest you discuss any medication with your healthcare professional, below is a checklist of what you need in any prenatal you take.

THE CHECKLIST:

Calcium (250mg)  

Calcium is a mineral that is vital for bone growth and strength. It’s especially important during pregnancy, as it keeps mom from losing her bone density while baby is using calcium for bone growth.

Zinc (15mg)

Zinc is an element that boosts your immune system, aids in the function of your taste and smell senses and can help heal wounds–all of which can be very important when growing a tiny human. But even more importantly, zinc is vital in helping baby with cell growth and the production and functioning of DNA. As pregnancy is rapid cell growth, zinc is hugely necessary to look for in your prenatal.

Iron (30mg)

A mineral that is always necessary, iron is helpful during pregnancy as it helps the blood carry oxygen. This obviously benefits both mom and baby, and will help make sure circulation is moving as required.

Copper (2mg)

Copper goes a little hand in hand with iron. Essential in forming red blood cells, copper aids in the growth and formation of baby’s heart, blood vessels and skeletal and nervous systems. Copper really packs a punch!

Vitamin C (50mg)

Everyone knows the important of Vitamin C. The vitamin helps the body make collagen, which will help with a plethora of things during baby’s growth: cartilage, tendons, bones, skin, tissue repair, wound healing, bone growth and healthy skin. Even better, it helps fight infections.

Vitamin B6 (2mg)

Vitamin B6 is great because it really works for both you and baby. It is essential for baby’s growing brain and nervous system, and helps baby metabolize protein and carbohydrates. And the best part? It curbs nausea. See ya, morning sickness!

Folic Acid (400-800mcg)

Folic acid aids in preventing neural tube defects. This is what affects baby’s brain and spinal cord, and defects can lead to brain damage and neural abnormalities. The variance in amount depends on if you have had deficiencies or issues with this in the past–always consult your healthcare provider.

Vitamin D (400 IU)

Vitamin D is great for maintaining proper levels of calcium and phosphorus, which in turn helps maintain the growth of baby’s bones and teeth. Make those chompers strong right from the start.

These are the main building blocks your prenatal vitamin should include. We cannot stress the importance and benefits of prenatal vitamins enough. Discuss with your healthcare provider about which vitamin will work best for you and your family. You can check out one of ours here.