Nutritional supplements during pregnancy

Prenatal nutritional supplements are vitamins and minerals for pregnant women or women who are trying to get pregnant. They have more of some supplements that are needed before, during and after pregnancy compared to regular supplements

It's recommended to take these supplements before, during and after pregnancy.

Why take supplements during pregnancy?

Getting the right nutrients is critical during pregnancy as you’ll need to nourish both yourself and the baby growing inside you.

Did you know that pregnancy increases the need for nutrients?

During pregnancy, the demand of both macro and micro nutrients in the body gradually increases and this is why you'll need something to supplement your daily diet as the food you eat cannot provide all of the essential nutrients in the required quantities. Example: Protein intake needs to increase from 0.8 grams per kg of body weight for non-pregnant women to 1.1 grams per kg of body weight for pregnant women.

Major reasons why you may need to take supplements during pregnancy:

• To prevent Birth defects like Neural Tube Defects (NTDs), Heart defects, mouth defects like cleft lip
• To promote proper growth and development of the baby like growth of strong bones
• To prevent nutritional deficiencies like osteoporosis (weak bones)
• To prevent pregnancy related complications like Hyperemesis gravidarum for the mother 

The most important nutrients needed during pregnancy

All nutrients are important, but these six play a key role in your baby’s growth and development during pregnancy:

1. Folic acid
2. Iron
3. Calcium
4. Vitamin D
5. DHA
6. Iodine

Other important nutrients include Omega 3 fatty acid, Vitamin B & C