Pregnancy is a time when most every woman decides to start taking prenatal vitamins. But there are so many choices out there. How do you decide WHICH prenatal vitamin to take?
Of course, you should consult your health care provider first.
Many women prefer to take a prenatal that is whole food based and doesn’t upset their stomach. Pregnant women need extra iron but sometimes iron supplements or prenatal vitamins with cheap iron in them cause nausea or abdominal discomfort.
Looking for a vitamin that has absorbable iron in it and is whole food based (rather than chemically manufactured) can help you find something that is easier on your body and more likely to be used.
Some other whole food supplements that pregnant women report improve their pregnancy wellbeing include:
- Brewers yeast- Brewers yeast can be purchased in bulk at your local health food store in flakes. It tastes great on air popped popcorn with a little melted butter or olive oil. It adds flavor, amino acids, protein, and B-vitamins.
- Vitamin C Powder- Many pregnant women experience symptoms during pregnancy such as varicose veins or bleeding gums that can be an indication of a vitamin C deficiency. A good quality vitamin C powder can be mixed into your morning orange juice right along with your yeast supplement for a powerful morning start.
- Blackstrap molasses- Unsulphered Blackstrap molasses is full of iron and potassium and can naturally increase your intake of these important vitamins in pregnancy. It can be poured on top of cornbread or biscuits or mixed in milk instead of less healthful chocolate for a protein and vitamin rich snack.
Eating well through pregnancy includes not just prenatal supplements but a nutritious diet rich in naturally occurring vitamins.
