The Benefits and Risks of Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal supplements have slowly but surely become a common presence in the life of many American women. Mainly among those who are expecting or want to be soon.

Just like regular dietary supplements, prenatal vitamins come with their own set of beneficial effects. Still, they might also impose unexpected risks that need to be considered before being consumed daily. Let’s take a look at the most important ones. 

The Benefits

First and foremost, the presence of folic acid and calcium, which are essential for the healthy development of the fetus’ spine, brain, and muscles, is the number one reason for prenatal supplements.

Moreover, the healthy environment created by the vitamins could provide aid even before the mother becomes pregnant. They would allow the fetus to develop in a body that is ready to welcome it. 

Secondly, everyone knows how hectic it can be to be a full-time mom. That is why eating properly often gets put on the backburner.  

A well-rounded intake of protein and nutrients isn’t always easy to achieve through eating. That's where vitamins come in.

Prenatal supplements can make sure that your baby suffers no nutritional deficiencies whatsoever.

If taken after birth, the breastfeeding process will be just as nutritious for the baby as the gestation process was. 

Consistently receiving these vital nutrients will do wonders for the long-term development of the child’s health and physical well-being. 

The Risks

As is the case with any substance, too much of a good thing can be bad. Too much folate or iron can result in uncomfortable and disturbing side effects. Many people suffer from digestive problems, nausea, or even sleep deprivation due to supplements.

Regarding calcium, prenatal supplements have been shown to lack the required daily intake that the body needs from the mother –1000 mg of calcium/day, with supplements providing anywhere between 200 to 300 mg/capsule. 

Therefore, if they are the sole calcium source, they can actually be harmful to the mother. Without the right amount of calcium, the mother is more at risk for bone sensibilities like osteoporosis. 

Vitamins could potentially worsen pre-existing medical conditions that the body was suffering from before pregnancy. Instances of allergic reactions, predisposition to bleeding, or worsened kidney problems can all be potential side effects.

They also could conflict with other medications like antibiotics or painkillers.

Despite these potential health risks, don't worry if you, or a loved one, experiences these possible side effects.  Because of the legal nature of supplements and how the FDA regulates them, you are entitled to receive significant moral and monetary compensation for the trauma that you have been exposed to. 

A supplement injury lawyer is always ready to hear you out and help you decide what the best course of action is in such a sensitive situation, which you have been put in through no fault of your own. 

To Sum Up

Overall, prenatal vitamins should be treated just like we treat all the other supplements in our lives. Give them a healthy dose of caution and critical thinking before jumping in. 

While they promise an easy and convenient alternative to cooking, always ask your doctor's opinion first.

Consequently, we are responsible for doing our homework before beginning any new substance. Stay safe!

What brand of prenatal vitamins do you like?