What Vitamins Do Pregnant Women Need And In What Quantities?
Pregnant women have increased nutritional needs in order to support the growth and development of the fetus. Here are some essential vitamins and minerals that pregnant women need, and the recommended daily intake:
Folic acid: Pregnant women should consume at least 600 mcg of folic acid daily, as it helps to prevent serious birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine.
Iron: Pregnant women need at least 27 mg of iron daily, as the growing fetus needs iron to develop a healthy blood supply.
Vitamin D: Pregnant women should consume 600-800 IU of Vitamin D daily, as it helps the body absorb calcium, which is essential for the developing baby’s bones.
Calcium: Pregnant women should consume at least 1000 mg of calcium daily, as it’s important for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth.
Vitamin B12: Pregnant women should consume at least 2.6 mcg of Vitamin B12 daily. It’s important for the development of the baby’s nervous system.
Vitamin C: Pregnant women should consume at least 85 mg of Vitamin C daily. It helps the body form collagen, a protein that is important for the growth and repair of tissues throughout the body.
Vitamin A: Pregnant women should consume at least 770 mcg of Vitamin A daily, it’s important for the development of the baby’s eyes and immune system.
It’s important to note that pregnant women should not take high-dose supplements without consulting their healthcare provider, as excessive intake of certain vitamins and minerals can be harmful to the baby. A balanced diet with a variety of foods can provide the necessary vitamins and minerals, but pregnant women should also consider taking prenatal vitamins as recommended by their healthcare provider.