The Scoop on Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal supplements (PNVs) are specialized vitamin and mineral supplements that women can take even before pregnancy to get all of the essential nutrients they need during pregnancy. Studies have shown that the use of prenatal supplements before and throughout pregnancy can benefit a healthy baby.
Fact: Vitamins and minerals should never replace a healthy diet. They are only meant to supplement a healthy diet, not take the place of anyone food or any food group. Foods contain hundreds of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients. Only food supplies the ideal mixture of these substances that are essential for optimal health. Supplements can provide you with insurance that you will receive everything you need, but they cannot do the entire job.
Prenatal vitamins come in many formulations. Most PNV are distributed as samples to physician’s offices, and it is a good idea to try multiple samples because some have stool softeners and other binders, which you may or may not tolerate. Finding one that you can tolerate will make it easier to take and therefore easier to remember to take it daily.
