| Most pregnant women will get all the nutrients they | | | | If you are planning on getting pregnant the you should |
| need for their body and developing baby from their | | | | take folic acid before conception and during the first |
| diet, however a good quality supplement with the right | | | | three months of pregnancy. |
| amount of vitamins and minerals can provide a | | | | Fish Oil in Pregnancy |
| safeguard in case the foods they eat do not supply a | | | | Fish oil contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids |
| critical nutrient that the baby needs. | | | | which provide the building blocks to form a healthy |
| It is important though to note that some supplements | | | | brain and body for a baby. |
| are not necessary and could even be dangerous if | | | | It is advisable to try and have extra omega-3 fatty |
| taken during pregnancy. | | | | acids during pregnancy but guidelines must be followed |
| Prenatal Vitamins | | | | on the amount of fish to consume when pregnant. |
| Prenatal vitamins are similar to normal vitamins but | | | | Fish oil supplements are safe to take during pregnancy |
| they have been adapted to suit a pregnant woman's | | | | and a number of brands have been designed purely |
| needs by having slightly higher levels of vitamins and | | | | for pregnant women. |
| minerals such as folic acid and iron. | | | | Fish oil does affect how blood clots so they should not |
| If vitamins are taken during pregnancy they should be | | | | be taken a couple of weeks before the mother is due |
| purchased them from a large, reputable manufacturer | | | | to give birth. |
| at a retail pharmacy as they are monitored for quality, | | | | Herbal Supplements during Pregnancy |
| Ensure supplements that are especially designed for | | | | Herbal supplements still have some concerns during |
| pregnant women are purchased and never exceed | | | | pregnancy as even though herbal additives are |
| the stated dose. If there is any doubt about | | | | promoted as "natural" any herb has the potential to be |
| requirements or whether a supplement is suitable for | | | | toxic or harmful. |
| pregnancy usage or not a doctor should always be | | | | Herbs and herbal supplements are generally safe |
| consulted. | | | | when taken in teas or in flavourings for food, however |
| Folic Acid during Pregnancy | | | | they should be avoided in concentrated doses or pills. |