Prenatal Supplements for a Healthy Pregnancy

Pre-natal and post-natal nutrition is so important for the health of our future and current mama’s. Here at Custom Chiropractic, we want our mama’s to get all the information they need to make the best decisions possible during and after their pregnancy. There are an abundance of prenatal supplements available to our future and current moms, but what specific vitamins and minerals should we be looking for? This article will discuss what types of vitamins and minerals you want to look for in your prenatal supplement, the affects these supplements have for you and your baby, and what else you can do to support a healthy pregnancy.

What are prenatal supplements?

Prenatal supplements are composed of vitamins and minerals specifically designed for pregnant women before, during, and after your pregnancy. These types of supplements provide the extra support your body needs through the many changes it goes through during the pre and post pregnancy phases, along with supporting your baby’s development. There are many formulas out there with great benefits for you and baby, but here are some specific vitamins we want to highlight for our moms to look out for in your prenatal supplements.

• Choline

  • For mom, choline aids in her metabolism, aids in supporting the liver and supports cognitive function in regulating memory and mood.
  • For baby, it supports brain development in the first trimester of pregnancy, aids in DNA synthesis, and counters the effects of prenatal stress.
  • Choline can be found in many foods such as eggs, salmon, and chicken breast. Choline in non-animal products can be found in vegetables and legumes such as peas, broccoli, and chickpeas.

• Vitamin C

  • For mom, vitamin C aids in immune function support, collagen synthesis, and promotes healthy mood.
  • For baby, it also supports immune function support, supports growth through cell division, and aids in the development of bones, teeth, and skin.
  • Vitamin C can be found in foods such as citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and kiwis. For less sugary options, you can find vitamin C in kale, bell peppers, squash, and cabbage.

• Vitamin B6

  • For mom, vitamin B6 minimizes pregnancy-related nausea, helps maintain blood sugar levels, and aids in magnesium absorption.
  • For baby, it supports brain development, DNA synthesis, and aids in adequate birth weight and skin health.
  • Vitamin B6 and other important B vitamins can be found in eggs, tuna, and avocado. B vitamins are also plentiful in bananas, spinach, avocado, and sunflower seeds.

• Magnesium

  • For mom, magnesium helps maintain healthy blood pressure, combats pregnancy-related discomforts, and promotes relaxation.
  • For baby, it supports formation of teeth and bones, aids in DNA synthesis, and supports healthy fetal growth.
  • Magnesium can be found in the white meat of turkey, almonds, chia seeds, and pumpkins.

Is this all I need in my prenatal supplements?

Prenatal supplements are only a small piece of the puzzle when it comes to proper pre-natal and post-natal nutrition. The vitamins and minerals discussed above are just a few we wanted to highlight, but there are many more that act alongside these vitamins and minerals to give you everything you need for you and baby’s health.

• Folate – Aids in preventing neural tube defects in the developing baby. Look for folate, NOT folic acid as it is easier for the body to metabolize.
• Iron – Prevents anemia in both the mother and baby. During pregnancy, mom’s blood volume expands, and iron is needed to aid in transportation of oxygen in the blood.
• Calcium – Essential for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Look specifically for di-calcium malate as it is most easily absorbed by mom.
• Omega-3 fatty acids – Important for brain and eye development in the baby, particularly in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy.
• Vitamin D – Supports the baby’s bone health and helps prevent maternal complications. Vitamin D also aids in calcium absorption along with vitamin K.
• Vitamin B12 – Important for the development of the baby’s nervous system and supporting mom’s energy levels and cognitive functioning.
• Zinc – Aids in DNA synthesis and cell division for baby. For mom, it aids in her immune function alongside vitamin C.

What else can I do for my nutritional needs?

Prenatal supplements are just that, supplements. It is advised that mothers planning to become pregnant, are currently pregnant, and during the breastfeeding phase aim to incorporate whole foods, organic when possible, and avoid non-processed foods as much as possible. Supplements are only as useful as the food you put into your body, as the phytonutrients in the foods help with better absorption, and therefore usage of these supplements. Without proper diet, these supplements will not be as useful for your body. It’s important to remember that nutrient needs vary from person to person and vary based on diet, lifestyle, and your current health status. While a comprehensive prenatal is great for your pregnancy journey, individual supplementation may also be key in addressing any specific deficiencies you may have.

For more personalized pre-natal and post-natal information on nutrition, mobility, and overall health, we recommend making an appointment by visit our website or calling 408-248-8700 to schedule. Our Palo Alto and Santa Clara locations are staffed with chiropractors certified in prenatal, postpartum and pediatric treatment. Additionally, our office offers massage therapy with therapists specialized in prenatal care to help ease your pregnancy and postpartum related complaints.

We’ve partnered with Blossom Birth and Family Centre to become one of their providers to help bring chiropractic care to the Bay Area. Visit us at the Blossom Birth and Family Fair on June 22, 2024 to learn more about the role of chiropractic care during pregnancy.