When you become a parent you will strive to do everything that you can to keep your baby happy and healthy. One thing that you can do to get them on the right path to a healthy life starts before they are even born. Prenatal vitamins are a great way to insure that you are not only doing your body good but also that you are aiding in your unborn baby’s development.
The expression “eating for two” not only pertains to the food you consume but also the nutrients. The little life growing inside of you is constantly growing and developing so it is more important than ever to make sure that you are consuming the right about of vitamins and nutrients to help them grow. Many of these vitals nutrients not only help them grow in size but also are extremely important when it comes to brain and eye development.
What Are Prenatal Vitamins?
Prenatal vitamins are tablets, or sometimes drops, that are taken daily and that are packed full of vital nutrients that any expecting mother needs. While your doctor may prescribe you prenatal vitamins, many of these wonder pills are available over the counter. Being able to choose the type of vitamin you want means that you can customize the nutrients that you are your child are receiving. While you should always listen to your doctor, especially if they prescribe a specific type of vitamin, you can also ask them if one of these over the counter prenatal vitamins can be an option for you.
What is in Prenatal Vitamins?
Prenatal vitamins will be full of the perfect balance of essential vitamins, oils, acids and other irons to help promote a healthy mom and a healthy development. While prenatal vitamins will obviously have all of the A, B and C’s of vitamins there are some key extras that you need to find. Here are just some of the things you can find as well as some extras to look out for:
Folic Acid
Folic acid is an important ingredient to keep an eye out for when shopping for the best prenatal vitamins. This specially formulated acid works to prevent certain birth defects that specifically involve the brain and spinal cord. Folic acid is especially important to take during the first trimester of your pregnancy.
Iron
By adding more iron into your life when you are pregnant you are helping to support healthy growth in your child. Iron also works to prevent a common blood disorder known as anemia. This means it is not only important for your child to be getting extra iron, but you as well. Anemia is a common problem among pregnant women and may lead to complications during labor.
Omega 3
Omega 3 oil is an amazing fatty acids that works to support all of the really important things in a baby’s development like their heart and immune system. A healthy immune system is extremely important, especially in newborns. They are so susceptible to ordinary health problems that you may take for granted. So by starting their immune system off right you are insuring a healthier life.
DHA
DHA is one of the more commonly heard of ingredients that is found in prenatal vitamins. You see it everywhere, even in some baby formula. So what is it? It is a specially formulated acid that works hard to support the eyes and brain as well as the central nervous system.
Calcium
Calcium works for a developing baby the same way it works for you. It will strengthen their bones and teeth as well as help to devolve a healthy heart, muscles and nerves. Calcium will basically be building the foundation for your child. But starting them out with a strong base you are not only encouraging them from the start but you are also giving them a great head start to later milestones like walking.
What to Expect When Taking Prenatal Vitamins
There are some side effects to taking prenatal vitamins that you may want to be aware of before buying them so you know how to better prepare. Some women experience upset stomach. This may be a combination of morning sickness and the increase of vitamins in your body but either way it isn’t always pleasant. Some women find it easier to take the prenatal vitamins at night so that they can sleep through the sick feeling but always make sure to check the label to see what is suggested. Another thing that you can do if you find yourself feeling sick is to never take the pills on an empty stomach. Sometimes it helps to make a routine out of it. After your morning coffee, decaf of course, have breakfast and take your vitamin. If you train your brain to remember this as an important step in your routine then taking the vitamins will become easier.
Another thing to remember is to always take the prenatal vitamins with a full glass of water. This not only helps to properly dissolve the vitamins but will also make them easier to swallow. The rumors are true, prenatal vitamins are huge. So take a deep breath, grab a giant glass of water and hope for the best! In no time the pills will seem smaller and smaller.
Last thing that you should expect to see isn’t a negative thing at all, in fact most woman look forward to it. Because of all the amazing essentials that are found in prenatal vitamins not only your health is benefiting, but your appearance as well! Prenatal vitamins will strengthen your nails. Many pregnant women boast about how long and strong their nails were growing after adding these vitamins to their routine. They also work to strengthen and thicken your hair. Pregnant women everywhere love how long and shiny their hair seems to become. Lastly and most important, the skin gets some huge benefits. Saying that a pregnant woman looks like she is “glowing” didn’t come from nowhere. These acids and oils will help to improve the appearance and overall texture of the skin for a glowing complexion. Consider all of these benefits a special little gift for giving up your body for nine months.
Now that you know what to look for and what to expect to see when adding prenatal vitamins into your routine, it is time to pick out the ones that are best for you! Here are some great options for prenatal vitamins.
List of 9 Best Prenatal Vitamins with DHA
1. Nature Made PrenatalMulti + DHA 200 Mg Softgels
When it comes to trusted vitamin brands, the Nature Made line of nutrients and vitamins have been a top seller for decades. Their specially formulated blend of vitamins has always been carefully processed and prepared to always insure that you are getting the very best. The Nature Made PrenatalMulti vitamins are no exception to this. These soft gel pills are a once a day dose that are roughly the length of a penny. So they are not the smallest of pills but certainly not the largest when it comes to prenatal vitamins.
The thing that makes these pills one of the best prenatal vitamins for expecting mothers is the additive of DHA. DHA which you know is important for healthy growth and development of a baby’s brain and eyes as well as their central nervous system. Along with DHA you are also getting a perfect blend of omega 3 fatty acids, zinc and vitamin D. Vitamin D is often forgotten about but it is a really important additive to have because it helps regulate the blood and can prevent jaundice.
You don’t need to worry about safety with the Nature Made prenatal vitamins either. They have been tested and approved by medical professionals to be completely safe to use during the full length of your pregnancy. Each ingredient was carefully selected and processed so that you can be guaranteed to be getting all of the essential nutrients your body needs to produce life. This product is FDA approved and is completely natural without any additives of dyes, artificial flavors, yeast or preservatives.
Are these the best ones for you? Here are some of the amazing ingredients you will find in the Nature Made PrenatalMulti vitamins.
- DHA
- Omega 3 fatty acid
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin C
- Folic acid
- Zinc
- Iron
- Calcium
2. One A Day Women’s Prenatal One Pill
If you have already been taking daily vitamins long before getting pregnant, then these prenatal vitamins may not be new to you. Women’s One a Day vitamins have been delivering some amazing daily multiple vitamins that have been designed to specifically target certain issues a woman may face. These One A Day prenatal vitamins are a great option for you because they have everything both you and your child need to get you through this important time.
The perfect blend of key ingredients like DHA and folic acid means that you are getting the best of nutritional support when it comes to your child’s development. The easy to swallow gel are a more convenient pill to swallow because of their smooth texture and their more compact size making it a perfect vitamin for mothers who have a hard time getting food down.
The best part about the One A Day Women’s Prenatal vitamins is that they promise to be there and aid you through every stage of your pregnancy. Starting off with import folic acid for the beginning stages of spinal cord development all the way up to developing sight and brain function, you’re covered. The brain even suggests you continue taking the pills after birth to not only help your body recover but to also support your nutrient levels if you are planning on breastfeeding.
Here is all the insider information you need to make the choice:
- Folic acid
- DHA
- Omega 3 fatty acid
- Iron
- Calcium
- Vitamin D
- Iodine
- Once daily pill
- Soft gel
- 100% of recommended daily vitamins
3. New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Vitamins Fermented with Probiotics
If you’re looking for something a little more when it comes to prenatal vitamins and the health care of you and your baby, then look no further! The New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Vitamins have all of the vital nutrients you would expect to see from prenatal vitamins along with some really great extras that will give your body an extra boost to help aid with your child’s healthy development. Along with folic acid and DHA you will be getting fermented probiotics which will help your digestive system.
This is a great option for mothers who suffer from debilitating morning sickness and other stomach problems. The New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Vitamins promise to be gentle on your stomach because the fermentation is similar to those found in certain yogurts which help to balance the good and bad bacteria found in the lining of your stomach to promote a healthy digestive system.
When you purchase the New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Vitamins you are not only getting a healthy boost of nutrients, you are also getting piece of mind. The specially designed formula is sourced from only natural and organic ingredients. Many of the nutrients are taken directly from important foods like organic kale and broccoli meaning that you are only putting good and hearty food into your system without having to actually eat them. This is great for picky eaters or those who just can’t seem to stomach certain iron rich foods during their long pregnancy.
What makes them one of the best prenatal vitamins? Here is what you will get if you purchase the New Chapter Perfect Prenatal Vitamins:
- Organically sourced nutrients
- Folic acid
- Iron
- No artificial dyes or ingredients
- Fermented probiotics
- Vitamin D3
- DHA
- 100% daily value of vitamins
- Vitamin B
- Promotes energy
4. First Response Prenatal and Postnatal Multivitamin Gummy
The First Response brand name may sound familiar to you. This is because they have been number one when it comes to family planning with their ovulation and pregnancy tests. So there is no surprise that they would continue to help you along your journey to motherhood with the addition of a great prenatal vitamin. The best part about these prenatal vitamins, besides the amazing health benefits, is the gummy form they come in.
Chewable gummies are a newer development in the prenatal vitamin community and are an excellent option for expecting mothers who suffer from upset stomach or who just can’t seem to swallow those giant horse pills. You will be delighted with the natural orange punch flavor which may help you get excited about adding a prenatal vitamin to your routine.
With the First Response Prenatal and Postnatal Multivitamin Gummy, you are not only getting a yummy product, you are also getting everything your body needs. The Vitamin B will help to keep your metabolism in check while also helping to give you enough energy to get through the day. A common symptom of pregnancy is fatigue. This is because your body is working for two! Any expecting mother would rather be heading for a day in bed rather than work but that isn’t always an option. By giving your body that extra energy you are doing everything you can to get your body up and moving even when you don’t feel like it. Along with the Vitamin B you are also getting a boost of calcium and folic acid.
What makes the First Response Prenatal and Postnatal Multivitamin Gummy one of the best prenatal vitamins? Here is why you should get them:
- Orange or berry flavor
- Easy to chew gummies
- 100% DV folic acid
- Vitamin B
- Calcium
- Promotes breast milk production
- Gluten free
- Gentle on the stomach
- Boosts metabolism and energy
5. Rainbow Light, Prenatal Organic Multivitamin
Some parents feel that in order to give their little one the best shot possible at a healthy life that it is important to start them off with a product that is 100% natural and organic. If leading an organic life is important to you, then you should try to find a prenatal vitamin that stays true to that lifestyle. The Rainbow Light Prenatal Organic Multivitamin does exactly that!
Not only do these multivitamins promote a healthy start to your child’s life, they also do it while being socially and environmentally friendly. The vitamins and nutrients that this product is made out of are organically sourced from foods that the nutrients are found in, Foods like enriched greens have so many essentials that you and your baby need, so it’s nice to know that you’re giving your body the very best.
Along with folic acid and omega 3 fatty oils you are also getting a healthy dose of antioxidants and probiotics. These two ingredients work together as a team to keep the health bacteria in your body in perfect balance to promote a healthy digestive system. This is not only great for your tummy but also will work wonders for your immune system. When you’re pregnant it is important to try to keep yourself healthy and sickness free, so the boost to your immune system is a welcomed change. Not only are you doing your body good, your helping the world too!
The bottles that these pills come in are made from 100% recyclable materials which are locally sourced to help keep waste out of landfills. Best off all, the Rainbow Light brand teamed up with Vitamin Angels to spread nutrient love all over the world to help children who suffer from malnutrition and to also help expecting mothers get the right amount of vitamins they need for a healthy life. So when you purchase these prenatal vitamins you can actually feel good about the good you are doing for the world.
Why should you purchase the Rainbow Light Prenatal Organic Multivitamins? Here are some key features:
- Folic acid
- Probiotics
- Antioxidants
- Organic blend
- Ginger
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Vitamin B6
- Recyclable bottles
- Locally sourced
- Nut and egg free
- Helps children around the world
6. Garden of Life Prenatal Multivitamin Supplement
There are many things to consider while shopping around for the best prenatal vitamins, one of these being your diet. Choosing a prenatal vitamin doesn’t mean that you have to sacrifice things that are important to you. If living by a strict vegan and vegetarian is something that you pride yourself on, consider looking for a great prenatal vitamin that also holds those values. The Garden of Life Prenatal Multivitamin Supplements contains no animal or dairy products which make them a great option for you and your lifestyle. While some vitamins and nutrients come from certain animals like in the case of fish oils, these prenatal vitamins are sourced from “real” foods.
The Garden of Life Prenatal Multivitamin Supplements prides them on not having any unrecognizable ingredients. That means there is no magnesium or unneeded “fillers” making up the weight of these powerful little pills. Instead of these unwanted additives, your body will be full of essential nutrients and vitamins like folic acid and vitamin B6. These ingredients work perfectly together to promote healthy fetal developments while also giving you an extra boost of energy.
This can mean all the difference in the world between having a productive day and having a day where getting even little things done seems impossible. Expecting mothers who have used this product love how absolutely comfortable it is on their sensitive tummies. This is because of the organic ginger and peppermint blend that works to leave you feeling soothed.
Are these the right prenatal vitamins for you? Here is why you should buy them:
- Folic acid
- Energy boost
- 100% organic
- No fillers
- Organic ginger and peppermint
- Vegan
- Nut free
- Iron
- Promotes development
- Easy on the stomach
- Over 21 essential vitamins and minerals
7. Vitafusion Prenatal Gummy Vitamins
It is suggested that you take prenatal vitamins once a day, every day during and after your pregnancy. After a while, the cost will add up. So it is good to know that some prenatal vitamins don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. The Vitafusion Prenatal Gummy vitamins cost around $10 per bottles and each bottle contains 90 pills. That is a whopping three month supply! Just because these prenatal vitamins are a more cost efficient option that doesn’t mean they don’t have all of the essential nutrients you and your baby need. Along with the Vitamin A, B, C and D you will also be getting a perfect mixture of Omega 3 fatty acids as well as DHA. The best part is that the Vitafusion Prenatal Gummy Vitamins have added the special ingredient of high quality fish oil which has been proven to be a major asset to any diet.
No need to worry about the fish oil doing you any damage either! These vitamins are FDA approved and have been filtered and tested to be lead and mercury free. The Vitafusion Prenatal Vitamins come in a yummy gummy form with such flavors as orange and raspberry which is perfect for you if you are having a difficult time swallowing larger pills.
The flavors are so tasty because they are made from natural flavors instead of being processed with artificial ones so that you can feel good about what you are putting in your body. The biggest health benefit you will get is in the folic acid. The amount of folic acid in these magical little vitamins is as much as you would see in three cups of spinach.
Still not sold? Here are some amazing things you will find with the Vitafusion Prenatal Gummy Vitamins:
- Fish oil
- Omega 3
- Vitamin A, B, C and D
- Folic acid
- Calcium
- Easy to chew gummies
- Great flavors
- No added artificial dyes
- FDA approved
- Budget friendly
- DHA
8. MegaFood – Baby & Me Prenatal & Postnatal Support for Mother & Baby
When looking for one of the best prenatal vitamins, it is important to look for a company that has you and your soon to be little one’s best interests at heart. That is exactly what the MegaFood brand has set out to do! MegaFood believes that in order to insure a healthy and happy baby you must first start by supporting the system that supports her.
In this case, it is the mother. The secret to a great vitamin starts with the food that the nutrients are taken from. These vitamins are formulated out of real organic food like cranberries. The cranberries serve as not only a great source of vitamins but also as a natural antibiotic that will boost your immune system and help keep you safe from everyday illnesses. The organic oranges are an amazing source of calcium which helps to strengthen your bones while also helping your little ones muscles to grow.
While some prenatal vitamins might make you feel ill and woozy, the MegaFood Baby & Me Prenatal vitamins promise to be gentle on your stomach and digestive system. While if you suffer from sour stomach you should always make sure to take your vitamins with food, with these gummies however, that is not necessary. The special blend of minerals and vitamins actually work together to sooth weak tummies making them easy to digest without any nauseating symptoms. This MegaFood Prenatal Vitamin has all you could need while during your nine months and after!
Is it right for you? Here are the amazing features:
- Folic acid
- Easy to digest
- Vitamins A, B and C
- Made from organic fruits and vegetables
- Boosts immune system
- Calcium
- Nut and dairy free
9. SmartyPants Prenatal Complete Gummy Vitamins
If you suffer from food allergies, like nuts and dairy, you know how hard it can be to find replacement supplements that won’t irritate your allergies and make them worse. This can be even harder when you’re pregnant because of the strict diet you may already be on. Luckily for you there are many new prenatal vitamins on the market that are 100% allergy free, one of them being the SmartyPants Prenatal Complete Gummy Vitamins.
These wonderful little vitamins are Non-GMO and are never processed with any artificial flavoring, colors or sweeteners so that you can be sure to keep your allergies in check. While they are void of things you don’t need, they are also chalk full of some really great body boosting nutrients. One of these nutrients is Vitamin D3. This vitamin is not only great to tone you and your baby’s blood; it also works wonders on your baby’s bones to help them grow strong and healthy.
Along with the Vitamin D3 you are also getting fish oil which is sourced from responsibly caught fish so that you don’t have to worry about the impact you are having on the world’s natural habitat. While the SmartyPants Prenatal Vitamins are made with fish oil, they guarantee to not have any “fishy” aftertaste like those you would find in other fish oil supplements. The easy to chew and digest gummies come in many yummy flavors like the lemon or strawberry banana and are flavored with only natural fruit juices. Mothers who use these gummies love not only the flavor but also the great amount of energy they get from taking them daily.
Are the SmartyPants Prenatal Vitamins right for you? Here are some of the reasons you should give them a try:
- Vitamin D3
- Folic Acid
- Fish oil
- Easy to chew gummy
- No fishy aftertaste
- Three delicious flavors
- Easy to digest
- Boosts energy and metabolism
- Allergy free
- Tested to be safe and effective
Conclusion
Taking prenatal vitamins is an important step to take when you’re planning a family. Whether you’re already pregnant or already had your baby, prenatal vitamins are there to help you and your baby’s health every step along the way. While you may be considering using any of these best prenatal vitamins it is extremely important to always check with your doctor before beginning a vitamin routine because there are some factors that you may need to take into consideration, like gestational diabetes. While prenatal vitamins are important, they are not the only change you will need to make to help with