Folic acid
Even though folate is found in foods such as lentils, leafy green vegetables citrus fruits and bananas, and whole grain bread, it’s recommended that you start taking a daily 400mcg folic acid (the synthetic form of folate) before trying to conceive. As soon as you find out you’re pregnant, switch to a daily 600mcg supplement.
What are the benefits?
All babies are potentially at risk of a neural tube defect (NTD) such as spina bifida, which affects the development of the brain and spinal cord. Most of these defects occur in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, which is why it’s vital to start taking folic acid before you’re pregnant. Folic acid plays a large role in cell growth and development as well as tissue formation and has been shown to reduce your baby’s risk of a neural tube defect. Although you should ideally start taking it before you get pregnant, if your baby is unplanned start taking it as soon as you see that positive pregnancy test!
Are some women at more risk?
Women who’ve had twins or multiples or who have had babies close together may have vitamin and mineral deficiencies so it’s important to start taking a folic acid supplement before falling pregnant again. Studies show that mothers who’ve had one child with a NTD are also at a higher risk but that they can lower their risk of having another baby with a NTD by 72 percent by taking a folic acid supplement.
Other multi vitamins
Iron Your body needs iron to make hemoglobin (the oxygen carrying part of the red blood cells). During pregnancy your blood volume increases but the number of red blood cells lags behind, so you’ll need to consume more iron. Add iron-rich foods such as kidneys, fish, egg yolks, red meat, cereals, molasses, apricots and haricot beans to your diet.
Calcium Your baby’s bones begin to form between four to six weeks and calcium helps to make them strong. If your developing baby doesn’t get enough nutrients it will show no mercy and take your supply, leaving you calcium deficient. Make sure you’re eating plenty of dairy products, leafy green vegetables, soy, broccoli and soft-boned fish such as sardines.
Other prenatal supplements If you eat a good diet, you’ll probably be getting enough nutrients and vitamins from your foods. Specific pregnancy multivitamins are available if you think you need them (they may benefit you if you’re a vegetarian or suffer from severe morning sickness) but it’s best to discuss it with your OB-GYN or nurse-midwife first, and try to stick to a healthy balanced diet.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.
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Last Modified: 24/09/2008
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