A balanced diet is particularly important for a healthy pregnancy in order to provide the expectant mother and unborn child with all the important nutrients and vitamins. According to the German Nutrition Society, nutrient and energy requirements increase significantly, which means great attention is paid to choosing the right foods. However, everyday nutrition is not always sufficient to consume all vitamins and minerals. With pregnancy supplements, pregnant women can supplement important nutrients such as iodine, folic acid, iron, vitamin D and DHA and ensure that their needs are met. Women who are planning to have children should also ensure that they adjust their intake early on. Right from the start of pregnancy, a proper diet, which also includes dairy products, a healthy lifestyle and sufficient physical activity are of great importance in order to support the health of mother and child and to minimize potential risks. Find out which dietary supplements are recommended during pregnancy and how important safe preparations are.
Why are dietary supplements important during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, women require significantly more nutrients, which often cannot be met through diet alone. When vitamin and nutrient needs can no longer be met through food, supplements come into play: Dietary supplements for pregnant women can prevent deficiencies and positively promote the health of mother and child.
Important vitamins and minerals during pregnancy
There are certain vitamins and minerals that expectant mothers should supplement during their pregnancy to support the growth and development of their unborn child and to maintain their own well-being.
Take folic acid when trying to conceive
Anyone planning to have a baby should start taking folic acid before becoming pregnant. Many studies have shown that an adequate intake of 400 micrograms of folic acid significantly reduces the risk of nervous system malformations such as neural tube defects. To ensure normal development of the unborn child's spinal cord and brain, women should supplement with this B vitamin at least one month before becoming pregnant and also specifically during the first trimester.
Increased need for iodine during pregnancy
Since women have an increased need for iodine during pregnancy, this trace element should also be supplemented. This ensures adequate iodine intake, which, according to the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, is important for maintaining various bodily functions such as the thyroid and nervous system. To prevent iodine deficiency and thyroid diseases, a daily intake of 100 to 150 µg of iodine is recommended.
Iron for pregnant women
In addition to folic acid and iodine, the German Society for the Prevention and Treatment of Inflammation and Inflammation (DGE) also recommends that pregnant women take iron supplements, depending on their individual iron reserves. A blood test can determine iron levels and adjust intake accordingly. Because blood volume increases during pregnancy, the need for iron also increases. For this reason, iron deficiency develops more quickly in pregnant women, which can impact the oxygen supply to cells and organs. In this case, increased iron intake through capsules and diet is important. Iron-rich foods include whole grain products, legumes, and spinach, which are best supplemented with vitamin C.
Omega-3 fatty acids for expectant mothers
Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for the health of the expectant mother and the development of the unborn child. These three fatty acids include docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid, which play a key role in the development of the child's brain as well as the function of the eyes and nervous system. A sufficient intake of omega-3 fatty acids contributes to the good development of the child's cognitive and motor skills. According to Professor Middleton of Cochrane Pregnancy, omega-3 fatty acids also reduce the risk of miscarriage and premature birth, which are among the most common causes of death in young children. Pregnant women are recommended to consume 200 milligrams of omega-3 fatty acids a day, which are found in foods such as fatty marine fish like salmon, as well as in sea fish and trout. Pregnancy supplements containing DHA also enable pregnant women to receive targeted nutrient supply.
The best safe supplements for pregnancy and breastfeeding
During pregnancy, vitamin and mineral needs can be met through pregnancy supplements to support the health of both mother and child. It's important to use safe supplements tailored to the needs of the pregnant woman. Nutraceutical supplements provide pregnant women and their developing babies with all the essential nutrients:
Nutrador Omega-3 fatty acid capsules
Omega-3 fatty acids influence the development of a child's brain and eye function. Nutrador Omega-3 fatty acid capsules also support the baby's cognitive development and reduce the risk of premature birth by 42% before 34 weeks and by 11% before 37 weeks. While DHA supports the child's vision, EPA promotes the mother's heart health and minimizes inflammation.
Supplementing folic acid during pregnancy
Taking folic acid is essential both before and during pregnancy to prevent malformations in the baby's brain and spinal cord. Folic acid supports cell division and growth in the child and influences the development of the nervous system. Nutrador Opti B-Complex capsules promote cell division and blood formation during pregnancy, as well as heart health and the immune system of the pregnant woman.
Vitamin D for healthy bone development
Taking vitamin D during pregnancy supports healthy bone and tooth development and improves calcium absorption. The immune system of mother and child is also strengthened by Nutrador Opti Immun capsules, which contain essential nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin B12, selenium, and vitamin E in addition to vitamin D3.
Iron for the formation of red blood cells
Because pregnant women have increased blood volume, their iron needs are also higher. This vital trace element is essential for the formation of red blood cells and the supply of oxygen to cells and organs. Iron deficiency can lead to health problems in pregnant women, such as fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, and an increased susceptibility to infections. Iron supplements can treat anemia and replenish iron stores.
How to choose a safe dietary supplement?
When choosing dietary supplements, pregnant women should follow certain guidelines:
Avoid harmful additives
Always choose high-quality products that don't contain harmful additives such as artificial colors, preservatives, or chemical fillers. The quality of the ingredients is essential to ensure that pregnant women receive optimal nutrition and are not adversely affected by health issues. Certain ingredients can be harmful, especially during pregnancy when the body is sensitive. The winning pregnancy supplements should contain natural and herbal ingredients that are well-tolerated.
Pay attention to certificates and third-party testing
Safe dietary supplements should have certifications or seals from reputable institutions such as the German Nutrition Society, which guarantee a certain quality standard. It's also important that the supplements have been tested by independent third parties to verify the ingredients and rule out any health risks.
Reputable brands
The market for pregnancy supplements is vast, making it difficult for many pregnant women to choose the right products. Only choose reputable brands that transparently label their supplement ingredients and have them regularly tested. Supplements from recognized brands, such as Nutraceuticals for Hair, are of proven quality and can be taken safely. However, vitamin and nutrient supplementation should only be undertaken after consulting your doctor to determine the correct dosage and whether it is necessary.
Tips for taking dietary supplements effectively during pregnancy
Taking dietary supplements during pregnancy can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of both mother and baby. To achieve optimal results and avoid side effects, pregnant women should consider a few tips when taking them:
Supplementing food supplements at the right time
While vitamin C and vitamin D are best taken in the morning with breakfast, vitamin B is recommended in the evening. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E only dissolve in combination with fat and are best taken with a meal. Since iron is often absorbed on an empty stomach, this trace element is best supplemented one to two hours after a meal. Certain vitamins also interfere with each other's effects and should therefore not be combined: Pregnant women should not take folic acid together with zinc, and iron should not be taken at the same time as zinc, calcium, and magnesium.
Interactions with other medications
In addition to interactions between individual vitamins and minerals, medications can also impair the absorption of dietary supplements. Antibiotics or blood thinners can inhibit or enhance the effect of dietary supplements. Anyone who wishes to take dietary supplements during pregnancy and is also taking medication should only do so in consultation with their doctor and follow their doctor's instructions.
Regular intake of dietary supplements
For optimal results, regular supplementation during pregnancy is important. Vitamins, minerals, and trace elements such as folic acid, iron, and vitamin D must be supplemented over a longer period to ensure effective nutrition for both mother and child. While folic acid should be taken at least until the end of the first trimester, iodine intake is recommended throughout the entire pregnancy. Taking 800 IU of vitamin D daily is also recommended to support the baby's bone and tooth development and the expectant mother's immune system.
Follow medical advice
The use of dietary supplements should always be done in consultation with a doctor, and pregnant women should always follow medical advice. For pregnancy supplements such as iron and vitamin D, a blood test is performed beforehand to determine any deficiencies and determine the correct dosage. Expectant mothers should follow their doctor's recommendations and not take more or different supplements on their own. If you experience any possible side effects or complaints, you should consult a doctor immediately to adjust your supplementation.
Conclusion: Dietary supplements during pregnancy
During pregnancy, a balanced diet with sufficient nutrients, trace elements, and vitamins is essential to support the health of mother and child. However, food alone is often not enough to meet nutritional needs. During pregnancy, women have an increased need for iodine, iron, and vitamins, which can be met with dietary supplements. When it comes to the question of which dietary supplements are essential during pregnancy, folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, iodine, iron, and vitamin D play a particularly important role. For the best possible effect, attention must be paid to correct intake, possible interactions with each other and with other medications, and the correct dosage. In addition, expectant mothers should choose safe, high-quality supplements that contain no artificial or harmful contaminants and that have been tested and certified by official institutions. Since every pregnancy is unique, the use of dietary supplements should always be consulted with a doctor to ensure the right products are selected.
Legal notice regarding health information:
Our information is for general information purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Health claims regarding food supplements must comply with the Health Claims Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 and be approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). If you have any health concerns or questions, please consult a doctor.
FAQ
Can I take multivitamins for pregnant women without consulting my doctor?
If pregnant women want to take multivitamins, they should always consult their gynecologist first. A blood test will determine any deficiencies and which vitamins and minerals should be supplemented. Certain vitamins can cause health problems if taken without a deficiency. Too high a dose of vitamin D can lead to hypercalcemia and impair the baby's bone formation. An excess of iron can also have negative effects on the body, causing not only stomach upset but also cardiovascular damage.
How do I know if a supplement is safe for my baby?
To ensure your and your baby's health, be sure to use certified supplements from reputable brands like Nutrador. A safe, high-quality supplement has been tested by recognized organizations like the German Nutrition Society (DGE) and independently tested. Avoid products with artificial colors or chemical additives; instead, choose supplements with natural ingredients and free of additives.
Why should I start taking folic acid four weeks before pregnancy?
Taking folic acid is recommended four weeks before pregnancy, as the neural tube begins to close three to four weeks after conception. Since many women don't realize they're pregnant until a few weeks later, folate stores should already be replenished by this time. Low folate levels increase the risk of brain or spinal cord malformations, such as neural tube defects.
Legal notice regarding health information:
Our information is for general information purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Health claims regarding food supplements must comply with the Health Claims Regulation (EC) No. 1924/2006 and be approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). If you have any health concerns or questions, please consult a doctor.
