Which Prenatal Vitamins Are Best?
A prenatal vitamin is a multivitamin specially formulated to provide key nutrients needed by both babies and mothers during pregnancy. While a health care provider can prescribe prenatal vitamins, most consumers purchase them over-the-counter. Those planning to get pregnant may start taking prenatal vitamins while trying to conceive and continue during pregnancy and postpartum, especially if breastfeeding.
The top choice for an effective and affordable prenatal vitamin is 21st Century Prenatal Tablets. However, formulations vary to meet expectant mothers’ unique dietary needs.
What to Know Before You Buy a Prenatal Vitamin
Prenatal Vitamin Ingredients
Key ingredients to look for in a prenatal vitamin include folic acid, vitamin D, calcium, and iron. It is important to understand that prenatal vitamins are not formulated to increase fertility. Instead, these supplements help support a healthy pregnancy by filling common nutritional gaps.
Vitamin Toxicity
Consuming megadoses of vitamins should be avoided. Taking higher levels than recommended can be toxic and lead to serious health issues. Be cautious of claims that high doses of prenatal vitamins promote fertility or improve hair and nail strength. In fact, prolonged intake of high vitamin levels can be harmful.
Fat-soluble vitamins such as vitamins A, D, E, and K are especially risky when taken in excess, as they accumulate in the body and may cause tissue damage, particularly to the liver. Unlike water-soluble vitamins, which are excreted in urine, fat-soluble vitamins do not exit the body as easily.
Prenatal Vitamin Manufacturers
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides guidelines for dietary supplements known as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). GMP certification is voluntary but indicates that a prenatal vitamin is manufactured under strict quality and safety standards.
What to Look for in a Quality Prenatal Vitamin
Capsule, Liquid, or Powder?
Prenatal vitamins come in various forms including gummies, chewables, liquids, and powders. Those who have difficulty swallowing pills may prefer chewable or liquid options.
Consider capsule design as well. Softgel capsules usually contain liquid ingredients but are more vulnerable to UV light and should be stored in a dark place if removed from the bottle. Tablet capsules, often made of two pieces, typically avoid UV deterioration but can be large and harder to swallow.
Vitamin Bottle and Capsule Count
When comparing prices, look at the bottle size and recommended daily dosage. Some brands sell bottles with 30 capsules (one-month supply), while others offer 60 or 90 capsules. Prenatal formulas requiring multiple capsules per day will run out quickly and may cost more than a single daily vitamin.
Vegetarian Prenatal Vitamins
Those avoiding animal products should carefully review ingredient lists. Many supplements contain animal-derived ingredients, and gelatin capsules are not vegetarian-friendly. Fortunately, many prenatal vitamins are designed specifically for vegetarians, vegans, and those with dietary restrictions.
Cost Expectations
You can expect to spend between $10 and $40 for a bottle of prenatal vitamins containing 30 capsules.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prenatal Vitamins
Q: Should you continue taking prenatal vitamins after giving birth?
A: Many mothers continue taking prenatal vitamins postpartum. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists encourages breastfeeding mothers to continue supplementing with prenatal vitamins.
Q: What is the best time of day to take a prenatal vitamin?
A: Consistency is key. Taking a prenatal vitamin with a meal helps reduce nausea. There is no specific time proven to enhance absorption; taking vitamins in the morning or before bedtime can help establish a routine.
Top Prenatal Vitamins to Buy
21st Century Prenatal Tablets
- What you need to know: Contains 800 micrograms of folic acid, designed for pregnancy and the postnatal period.
- What you’ll love: Manufactured in the U.S. in an FDA-approved, GMP-certified facility.
- Considerations: Large pills can be difficult to swallow.
Thorne Research Basic Prenatal Folate Multivitamin for Pregnant and Lactating Women
- What you need to know: A gentle prenatal formula suitable for pregnancy, nursing, or those trying to conceive.
- What you’ll love: Focus on pure ingredients, excluding additives and coatings.
- Considerations: Contains higher vitamin B12 levels compared to other formulas; worth checking if this aligns with your needs.
Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Prenatal Multivitamin
- What you need to know: A comprehensive prenatal formula suitable for vegetarians.
- What you’ll love: Includes a blend of organically grown fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants.
- Considerations: Contains vitex, which may affect hormone levels.
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