Personalized Prenatal Vitamins and Their Potential to Impact Nutrition – Vous Vitamin

One critical supplement for pregnant women is omega-3. We prioritized incorporating a high-quality omega-3 product into vitamin regimens without compromising the purity or recommended amounts for a quality prenatal product. This booster not only includes other vital nutrients for pregnant women but also features a premium omega-3—a crucial element in any effective prenatal vitamin.

A 2011 study from the UK revealed that women taking multivitamins were more likely to conceive and maintain pregnancies. It is unsurprising that proper nutrition supports pregnancy. From an evolutionary perspective, it makes sense that women who meet their health needs would be more successful in carrying a child. We believe that certain essential vitamins are significant for women trying to conceive. A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to infertility. Research indicates that women with sufficient vitamin D levels are more likely to get pregnant (and produce high-quality embryos during in vitro fertilization) compared to those who lack this crucial vitamin. This is not unexpected, as vitamin D plays a vital role in various health aspects, including bone density, immune response, and cancer prevention. Therefore, its importance in fertility is logical.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin typically obtained from sunlight. However, factors like widespread sunscreen use and living in regions with limited year-round sun exposure can lead to suboptimal vitamin D levels for many of us. Given its fat-soluble nature, vitamin D absorbs slowly, and it may take six to twelve months to normalize levels.

Folate is another essential vitamin for those trying to conceive. This B vitamin supports nerve health and is crucial for fetal neural tube development. Pregnant women lacking in folate face higher risks of birth defects such as spina bifida in their babies. While folate can be found in fruits, vegetables, and fortified cereals, it’s generally advised that women who are pregnant or planning to conceive take a folate supplement, such as folic acid, at least six months before trying to get pregnant. Many common multivitamins and prenatal vitamins provide adequate amounts of this essential nutrient. However, many women may not realize they should begin supplementation prior to conception, often only considering prenatal vitamins once pregnant. Taking folic acid in advance can support both fertility and fetal health.

Similarly, optimal thyroid function is important when trying to conceive. The thyroid regulates metabolism, and dysfunction in this gland is a common infertility factor. It influences how the brain manages the menstrual cycle. Women with underactive thyroids may experience irregular cycles and may not ovulate consistently. Those with a history of thyroid issues may require adjusted medication during pregnancy, so consulting your doctor before conception is advisable. Iodine is a vital nutrient for thyroid health, and the thyroid relies on it to produce hormones. Globally, iodine deficiency causes significant issues, including miscarriages and birth defects. In Western countries, processed foods often contain iodine due to iodized salt. However, the trend towards healthier eating, often involving the use of sea salt or kosher salt, has reduced iodine intake. While seeking a healthier diet is beneficial, it has inadvertently affected our iodine levels, which are crucial for thyroid function. A good multivitamin should provide adequate iodine (but not excessive amounts, which can be harmful). During pregnancy, the recommended daily intake of iodine increases to 220 mcg, with higher requirements during breastfeeding. Although some iodine can come from food sources, a supplement often serves as a useful insurance policy.

Not all prenatal vitamins include the necessary iodine, so it’s essential to verify that yours does. However, caution is warranted; excessive iodine intake can be risky and may actually disrupt thyroid function. In this case, more is not necessarily better.

Iron is another important nutrient for conception, pregnancy, and the postpartum phase. Regular menstruation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding can significantly deplete iron reserves. It is prudent to proactively include an iron-containing vitamin in your regimen. Building up iron stores may prepare your body for conception. Once pregnant, both the mother and developing baby need iron to support the production of red blood cells that transport oxygen to tissues. However, many individuals experience digestive issues with iron supplements, which can lead to upset stomach or constipation.

Discover your personalized vitamin blend through a needs assessment. Numerous companies provide online tools to guide you towards the optimal formulation. Look for a reputable brand with a history of serving customers and collaborations with trustworthy physicians.