Taking prenatal vitamins 6 months before pregnancy

Prenatal vitamins are often taken by pregnant people or those planning to become pregnant. Nutrient requirements are higher during pregnancy than otherwise, and these supplements help provide the necessary vitamins and minerals for optimal health outcomes.

Although it is possible to meet many of these requirements with diet alone, most healthcare providers recommend prenatal supplementation. Prenatal supplements often combine folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other micronutrients.

Most important vitamins for pregnancy

The nutrients and doses vary among brands, so it's important to carefully read the label before purchasing.

1. Folic Acid Prevents Neural Tube Defects

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are congenital malformations (abnormal growth changes during fetal development) of the central nervous system.

This may affect the brain and spine of the baby. Examples of NTDs are spina bifida (incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord) or anencephaly (incomplete formation of the brain and skull).

Research has shown that consuming adequa

when should you start taking pregnancy vitamins

when do you need to start taking prenatal vitamins