Vitamins during pregnancy
Today, I wanted to share my experience with the supplements I took during and after my pregnancy. It's a journey that I think many of you might relate to or find informative, especially when trying to make the best choices for your health and your baby's.
During my pregnancy, I opted for the MegaFood Prenatal Multi and a form of iron known as heme iron. I felt more comfortable with this choice, especially since typical over-the-counter iron pills can be quite harsh on the stomach. My first clue that I had an iron deficiency was an intense craving for ice water – I always wanted the coldest water possible. Interestingly, this turned out to be a sign of needing iron.
In addition to these, I took vitamin D, magnesium, probiotics, and fish oil. The fish oil I chose was Dr. Sears’ OmegaRx. In my opinion, it's one of the best on the market. It's ultra-refined and undergoes rigorous testing – you can even find the test results available. However, it is quite pricey, so I don’t use it all the time.
My diet also played a crucial role. I think what I ate was similar to the veggie puree I showed in yesterday's post. Oh, and a very important decision I made was to stop all consumption of diet sodas and light products. They contain artificial sweeteners, and I read that if a mother consumes these products, it could increase the risk of the baby developing autism, particularly in boys. While this may not be conclusively proven, I didn't want to take any chances. I've continued this strict avoidance of artificial sweeteners even now while breastfeeding. I want to give my son the best start in life, and honestly, it hasn't been as hard as I thought it would be to give these up.
For those of you who love to get into the nitty-gritty of health and wellness, here's a more detailed look at the supplements I took during my pregnancy. Feel free to geek out with me on this!
MegaFood Prenatal Multi: This isn't just any multivitamin. It's specifically designed for the unique needs of pregnancy, with a focus on folic acid for neural tube development and iron for blood health – both critical for baby's growth.
Heme Iron: This type of iron, derived from animal sources, is more easily absorbed by the body than its non-heme counterpart from plants. It's a key player in preventing pregnancy-related anemia and ensuring both you and your baby have adequate oxygen supply.
Vitamin D: Essential for calcium and phosphate regulation, Vitamin D keeps your bones strong and aids in your baby's skeletal development. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a sturdy frame.
Vitamin K: Often overshadowed by its more famous counterparts, Vitamin K is a bit of a hidden gem in prenatal care. It plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. For pregnant women, adequate Vitamin K intake is important not only for their own bone health and blood coagulation but also for the developing baby. It helps in the formation of healthy bones in the fetus and may reduce the risk of minor bleeding in the baby during birth.
Magnesium: It's like a multitasking wizard for the body. Involved in hundreds of processes, magnesium in pregnancy can ease muscle cramps and support healthy growth and DNA synthesis.
Probiotics: These friendly bacteria are all about gut health, which is more important than you might think during pregnancy. They help with digestion, ward off infections, and might even have a role in preventing preeclampsia.
Fish Oil (Dr. Sears’ OmegaRx): Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are the stars here. They're crucial for your baby's brain and eye development, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when brain growth is exponential.
Avoiding Artificial Sweeteners: While the science is still evolving, steering clear of artificial sweeteners might be a precaution worth taking. It's about reducing exposure to synthetic additives and focusing on a more natural diet during this crucial time.
The Foundation: Healthy Diet, Mindfulness, and Exercise
While supplements are important, let's not forget that the cornerstone of prenatal health is a balanced diet, a peaceful mind, and regular exercise.
Healthy Diet: Eating a variety of nutritious foods provides the foundation for both your and your baby's health. Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats should form the bulk of your diet. This ensures you're getting a wide range of nutrients naturally.
Sound Mind: Pregnancy can be an emotional rollercoaster. Practices like meditation, mindfulness, and even simple breathing exercises can help maintain mental and emotional balance. A sound mind contributes significantly to a healthy pregnancy.
Exercise: Staying active is key. Regular exercise, tailored to your body’s changing needs and your doctor’s advice, can help with stamina, muscle strength, and mood. Activities like walking, prenatal yoga, and swimming are great options.
Remember, the journey through pregnancy is unique for everyone. While supplements can help fill in nutritional gaps, they work best alongside a healthy lifestyle. Listen to your body, stay in tune with your needs, and always consult with healthcare professionals when making decisions about your health and the health of your baby.
I'm curious to hear about your experiences. What were your go-to supplements or dietary changes during pregnancy and why? Share your stories in the comments.
