Important Prenatal Vitamins to Take: Folic Acid, Iron and Vitamin A

By Natasha Marryat

"Is it always recommended to take prenatal vitamins?" "Is taking medicine dangerous for pregnant women?" "Does it have any side effects?" These are some of the questions that bother pregnant women today. To note, pregnancy is one of the most significant events that a woman has to experience in her life. Not to mention of course, the thrill and excitement it brings.

Is eating the right kinds of foods already enough for a pregnant woman? Think twice. Experts discovered that pregnant women taking prenatal vitamins are healthier and that also includes their child.

Many fertility experts recommend that if possible, pregnant women should not limit themselves in eating foods only. It is also advised that women should take prenatal vitamins. This is not to replace the nutrients, but instead, supplement the other nutrients present inside the body.

Folic acid is one of the most important prenatal vitamin a pregnant woman has to take. This vitamin,which is a member of the B family helps for a strong pregnancy and healthy fetal development. This vitamin is important is reducing the risk of birth and neural tube defects. Example of a neural tube defect is spina bifida which is the most common. It is then recommended that women should take folic acid even before pregnancy. The required folic acid intake is 200 micrograms (mcg).

Two separate studies in 1991 and 1996 found out that folic acid can help prevent neural tube defects, urinary tract and cardiovascular defects. Deficiency folic acid will lead to low birth weight and increased incidence of neural tube defects.

Another necessary prenatal vitamin is iron. Iron is the main component of hemoglobin which is the part of the blood that carries oxygen. Thus, iron is important in the transportation of oxygen in the body of the pregnant woman and that of the unborn child. Iron enhances the baby's healthy growth and helps the mother maintain a healthy body as she gives birth to a baby.

There are many things Vitamin A can do. First, it can help in developing the embryo,cells and tissues. Second, it fights infections and repair damaged tissues. Third, it can also help in lactation which is done during breastfeeding. Lastly, it develops other parts of the body such as the eyes, heart, skin and mucous membranes. These are the reasons why Vitamin A is essential for pregnant women.

Thus, intake of prenatal vitamins is truly essential for women not only during pregnancy but onwards. And what's best about it is knowing that you have also imparted a healthy life to your child. - 33375

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