Proper nutrition can keep you and your baby healthy during your pregnancy. However, what if you aren’t getting enough vitamins from food? This is why many obstetricians prescribe prenatal supplements for their patients. While you should always speak with your doctor when planning your diet and taking any vitamins, the following are some of the most important supplements to know.  

Which Prenatal Vitamins Should I Take?

Folate

Folate—also called vitamin B-9—is one of the most essential nutrients for pregnant women and their babies and is found in many fruits and vegetables. When you consume enough folate, you can promote optimal brain and spinal chord health for your child. Specifically, you can avoid neural tube defects during development. Most obstetricians will recommend that patients start increasing folate consumption or taking supplements before conception or soon after they find out they’re pregnant. 

Vitamin D

When you get enough vitamin D in your diet, your baby will have stronger bones and teeth. You will also absorb more calcium and phosphorus to keep you healthy during the pregnancy. Vitamin D is naturally present in fish, meat, dairy products, mushrooms, and eggs.

Iron

This mighty nutrient keeps the proper amount of oxygen flowing through the blood. For pregnant women, eating enough iron will prevent anemia and keep energy levels up. Your baby will then receive the right amount of oxygen to develop a healthy body. Iron is present in dark leafy vegetables, legumes, meat, enriched bread, and some nuts. 

Vitamin B-12

Vitamin B-12 ensures the health of your nervous system during pregnancy. Similar to folate, this vitamin will also prevent nervous system defects for your baby. B-12 and -9 also work together to produce red blood cells and DNA synthesis. Especially if your diet is low in animal products, your obstetrician may recommend a supplement. 

Calcium

Your mother likely told you that calcium is important for healthy bones, and this is especially true during pregnancy. Since much of the calcium you consume goes to keep your baby’s bones, muscles, and circulatory system healthy, it may be helpful for you to include a supplement to avoid a deficiency. 

A healthy pregnancy means having the best obstetrician on your side. Genesee Valley Obstetrics & Gynecology in Rochester, NY, provides the women’s health care you can trust. From prenatal care to routine Pap smears, their OB-GYNs and staff offer state-of-the-art services in a comfortable environment. With their online patient portal, you can have 24/7 access to your health information for increased peace of mind. For more information on their services, call (585) 232-3210 or visit their website.