What Supplements Should Pregnant Women Avoid and What Are the Best to Take?

When it comes to prenatal health, it's important to be aware of the supplements and vitamins that should be avoided during pregnancy. Learn more about essential nutrients needed during pregnancy and the best supplements to take.

What Supplements Should Pregnant Women Avoid and What Are the Best to Take?

When it comes to prenatal health, it's essential to be aware of the supplements and vitamins that should be avoided during pregnancy. High doses of vitamins A, C, and E can be dangerous and should not be taken as supplements. Foods that are high in vitamin A, such as liver and liver-derived products, should also be avoided. Seafood, alcohol, and cigarettes with high levels of mercury are all banned during pregnancy.

In addition to these substances, certain vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements should also be avoided. Folic acid is an artificial form of folate, a vitamin B, and plays a critical role in the development of the baby's neural tube. To learn more about the essential nutrients needed during pregnancy, it's best to book an appointment with a healthcare provider. Cod liver oil and any supplement containing vitamin A (retinol) should not be taken during pregnancy. If your doctor recommends increasing your calcium intake, consider trying vegan supplements like Hum's Got Calcium which contains 630 mg of calcium per serving.

Perelel is a supplement company that specializes in products for people at different stages of the reproductive cycle. When it comes to micronutrients and herbs, some are safe for pregnant women while others should be avoided or taken in small amounts. A good prenatal supplement should contain at least 2.6 mcg (the recommended daily value for pregnancy and adults in general) for healthy nervous system development. If your blood iron level drops, iron supplements may be recommended. Taking prenatal supplements helps fill in dietary gaps and gives your baby the healthiest possible start. In addition to the vitamins and supplements mentioned above, there are five of the best supplements to take during pregnancy.

If your doctor finds that you have low levels of vitamin D, he or she may recommend additional supplements. Certain plants and herbs can be harmful during pregnancy or breastfeeding so it's important to check with your doctor before taking any additional supplements. Observational studies have shown that supplementing with prenatal vitamins reduces the risk of preterm birth and preeclampsia. Probiotic supplementation has been linked to a reduced risk of gestational diabetes, postpartum depression, and childhood eczema and dermatitis.