Pregnancy can be a confusing time. You want to learn which foods to eat and which supplements during pregnancy are essential.
However, it doesn’t have to be confusing at all. You probably know that alcohol and cigarettes are a big no during pregnancy. But did you know that some vitamins and supplements can also be risky?
Figuring out what’s safe and what’s not can be tough. Moreover, the information can be all over the place. But don’t worry; we’re here to help.
Let’s make it simple and tell you which supplements you can take during pregnancy.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Take Supplements During Pregnancy?
Taking supplements during pregnancy is like giving your body and your baby extra helpings of important nutrients.
Here’s why it’s a good idea:
Growing Baby Needs More
When you’re pregnant, your baby is growing fast, and that means they need more vitamins and minerals to build their body and organs.
Healthy Baby Development
Some nutrients, like folic acid and calcium, are builders for your baby’s body. They help make sure everything grows well, and there are no problems.
Keep Mom Healthy
Pregnancy can make you feel tired and sometimes not so great. Iron and vitamin D help you stay strong and healthy while you take care of your baby.
Morning Sickness Can Be Tricky
Sometimes, you might feel sick in the morning or not want to eat certain foods. Supplements help ensure you and your baby still get the good stuff you both need.
Doctor’s Advice
Your doctor knows best. They can check what you need and tell you which supplements are right for you. It’s like having a personal guide to a healthy pregnancy.
Fixing Diet Gaps
If you’re picky with your food or have a special diet (like being vegetarian or vegan), supplements ensure you don’t miss out on essential nutrients.
Avoiding Problems
Some supplements, like folic acid, can lower the chances of your baby having problems. So, taking them is like an insurance for a healthy pregnancy.
Energy Boost
Pregnancy can make you tired. Iron and B vitamins give you more energy and help you feel better.
Which Supplements During Pregnancy Should You Take?
Let’s explore the supplements that are essential during each trimester.
The first trimester is a period of rapid development when your baby’s major organs and systems begin to form. Proper nutrition during this stage is crucial to ensure a healthy foundation for your baby.
You should consult the best female doctor before taking any supplements. Here are the ones every woman usually needs during pregnancy:
Folic Acid
Folic acid, or folate, is one of the most crucial supplements during the first trimester. It helps prevent neural tube defects in the baby’s brain and spinal cord.
Taking 400 micrograms of folic acid is recommended, ideally before conception and throughout the first trimester. Studies show this reduces the danger of neural tube defects in the developing baby.
You can take Nature’s Bounty Folic Acid at your doorstep from Healthwire Pharmacy.
Iron
Iron is essential for oxygen transport in your blood and to support your baby’s development. The recommended daily intake of iron increases during pregnancy.
Fefol Vit is a good option to fulfill your iron needs. However, consult your healthcare provider to determine if you need an iron supplement.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a critical role in bone health and immune function. Many pregnant women have insufficient levels, so supplementation may be necessary if you have limited sun exposure.
Sunny-D soft gel capsules are a common choice among doctors. They can recommend if you need to have a capsule fortnightly or monthly. It all depends on your vitamin D needs.
The second trimester is the “honeymoon period” of pregnancy. Morning sickness tends to subside, and you may have more energy. However, it is not the time to neglect your nutritional needs.
Here are the supplements to focus on during this trimester:
Calcium
Calcium is essential for the development of your baby’s bones and teeth.
If you don’t get enough calcium from your diet, your body will take it from your bones, potentially weakening them.
Aim for 1,000-1,300 milligrams of calcium daily. You can take Qalsan-D chewable tablets.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are crucial for your baby’s brain and eye development.
A supplement can help ensure you’re getting an adequate amount.
Prenatal Multivitamin
In addition to the supplements mentioned above, consider a prenatal multivitamin that contains a spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, B6, and zinc, to support overall health.
Pregnacare multivitamins can help you before conception, during pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
As you enter the third trimester, your baby gains weight rapidly and prepares for life outside the womb. Your nutritional needs continue to evolve, and supplementation remains essential:
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is vital for blood clotting and bone health. Your baby’s vitamin K levels at birth are low, so supplementation can help prevent bleeding issues.
Magnesium
Magnesium aids muscle and nerve function and is essential for overall well-being. It can also help alleviate pregnancy-related leg cramps.
You can take Nutrifactor’s Magnesium tablets.
Probiotics
Probiotics can support your digestive health, which may be affected by pregnancy hormones. A healthy gut can have positive effects on both you and your baby.
Important Note: The supplements shared in this article are purely for educational and information purposes and in no way imply you to take these without a doctor’s note. Every pregnancy is different, and only a qualified gynecologist can help you select the ones for your specific needs during this time. You can consult Dr. Khola Zeeshan for all your pregnancy-related and fertility questions.
Order Your Supplements from Healthwire Pharmacy!
Now, you can easily order all your pregnancy medications from Healthwire Pharmacy. All you need to do is download the app, log in, add your desired medications to the cart, complete the order, and get your medicines within the same day. Use the code FIRST25 to get 25% off on your first order.
Enjoy a seamless delivery at your doorstep.
