Have you ever wandered the vitamin aisles and wondered which bottles are right for you? This is a common challenge as most consumers are confused when it comes to vitamin selection. The mass market would have you think there is one type of prenatal vitamins that is right for every woman. This is a myth. In fact, women have very different supplementation needs based on their diet, fitness, health, and lifestyle. It is important to find the proper blend of nutrients and dosing that is right for your profile. Sure, there are common nutrients that are evidence-based and recommended for all women who are trying to conceive or prenatal. However, there are another set of nutrients that will vary widely based on your individualized health and lifestyle. It is important to go through a personalized vitamin assessment to determine which vitamins might be appropriate for your profile.
One type of supplement that has become a routine part of prenatal care is omega-3 fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids (DHA and EPA). This is due to some studies in the 2000s that show an association with fetal cognitive development and maternal DHA. Premature babies who get DHA supplements exhibit improvements in cognitive function and vision compared to those who do not get the supplements. There have also been studies that suggest some decline in premature birth and in postpartum depression among women taking omega-3s during pregnancy.
So many women find pregnancy a time when they start to really take their own health seriously. Many stop smoking and drinking alcohol for the benefit of their unborn child. These measures are wonderful and should not be overlooked. However, it is our plea to women everywhere who are not yet pregnant that they start thinking about their overall health prior to trying to conceive. It is easier to focus on your health when you are not pregnant as you may be less tired and nauseated, and able to concentrate on your own diet and lifestyle choices. Entering this phase of life in optimal health, you will likely get pregnant more easily, have a healthy full term pregnancy, and produce a thriving baby by getting a head start on the proper nutrients before your body undergoes the stress of pregnancy. In short, it’s never too early (or too late, for that matter) to start laying the proper groundwork with diet, exercise, and nutritional supplements for childbearing.
In a world where health should require an individualized approach by each person, generic multivitamins often cannot provide the same nutrients that your body really
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