Multivitamins for Maternal Health: Supporting Women Through Pregnancy

Healthy pregnancy is rooted in balanced nutrition. You may wonder how many women in Pakistan are actually getting the nutrition they need during pregnancy.

Several surveys have reported that a significant percentage of women experience nutritional deficiencies. According to 2022 statistics, 43.7% of women were anemic, 18.2% had an iron deficiency, and 79.7% experienced a vitamin D deficiency.

These deficiencies can be addressed through proper supplementation, but choosing the best multivitamin for women in Pakistan can be challenging.

Looking for the best prenatal vitamins? Activit can be a reliable option to support your pregnancy journey. With its organic formulation, Activit may promote maternal health and enhance pregnancy outcomes. It includes essential nutrients in bioavailable forms, ensuring optimal absorption and effectiveness.

Let’s discuss everything about prenatal vitamins!

How Multivitamins Support Maternal Health

Healthy nutrition is not just about eating well; rather, it is consuming the right balance of vitamins and minerals in appropriate dosages. But why is it so important?

According to a study, 70% of pregnant women exceed their recommended intake of added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium. This unhealthy eating can lead to weight gain and increase risks for both maternal and fetal health.

That is why many women turn to the best prenatal vitamins, which supply the body with essential nutrients in balanced amounts, ensuring all nutritional needs are fulfilled for a healthy pregnancy.

Take iodine, for example, which is important for producing thyroid hormones that support fetal brain development. Similarly, prenatal multivitamins containing calcium and vitamin D are essential for stronger bones and teeth. Protein, another vital nutrient, promotes overall fetal growth by aiding muscle, bone, and tissue development, particularly during the second and third trimesters.

All this leads to one conclusion: choosing the best prenatal vitamins during pregnancy is essential for both maternal health and fetal development.

Essential Nutrients for Pregnancy

The following are the most important vitamins and minerals during pregnancy:

Folate for Preventing Neural Tube Defects

Folate, or vitamin B9, is important for closing the neural tube of a baby, which then forms the brain and spinal cord. Without enough folic acid, your baby might be at risk of developing neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. Therefore, a regular supply of folic acid before conception and during the first few weeks of pregnancy is essential for fetal development.

Folate is naturally found in green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals. However, prenatal multivitamin supplements help you ensure adequate folic acid for proper fetal development. That is why women start taking natural prenatal vitamins even before conception.

A daily intake of at least 400 to 600 mcg is recommended for women trying to conceive or already pregnant.

Iron for Preventing Anemia

Iron is another important nutrient during pregnancy that helps increase blood volume and provides oxygen to the developing baby. Without enough iron, pregnant women may experience anemia, fatigue, dizziness, and weakened immunity.

That is why women require more iron, especially during pregnancy. Red meat, chicken, eggs, beans, fortified cereals, and green leafy vegetables are excellent sources of iron. Besides natural resources, you can get iron from multivitamins to ensure both mother and baby receive sufficient oxygen transport.

The daily recommended dosage of iron is approximately 30 to 60 mg, with higher amounts suggested for those with anemia. To enhance absorption, consider taking citrus fruits or vitamin C alongside your iron supplement.

You can also consider a premium-quality supplement like Activit, which contains iron as ferrous bisglycinate and vitamin C in liposomal form – both of which are highly bioavailable to support better absorption.

Activit - best prenatal multivitamin that supports healthy pregnancy and postpartum recovery

Calcium and Vitamin D for Bones and Teeth

The developing fetus requires calcium and vitamin D for the formation of a strong skeleton, which it takes from the mother’s bones. Therefore, pregnant women must consume enough calcium and vitamin D to prevent bone loss and ensure proper skeletal development.

Luckily, during pregnancy, your body becomes more efficient at absorbing calcium from food. To enhance calcium absorption, healthcare providers recommend vitamin D alongside calcium for better bone strength and overall health. However, if you are not getting enough calcium, you can take the best multivitamin tablets with calcium to support muscle function, nerve signaling, and a healthy heart.

The recommended daily dosage of calcium for pregnant women is 1,000 mg, while that of vitamin D is 1000 to 2000 international units (IU). You can also obtain calcium naturally through various foods. Milk, cheese, and yogurt, as well as fortified tofu, orange juice, and tinned fish, such as sardines and tuna, are good sources of these nutrients.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Supporting Brain and Vision Development

Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential building blocks for fetal brain and retina development. Since your body does not produce omega-3s, you can obtain them from your diet or high-quality supplements. The natural sources of omega-3 are oily fish such as salmon, trout, mackerel, flaxseeds, linseeds, rapeseed oil, broccoli, kidney beans, spinach, cauliflower, and walnuts.

You can also consider taking pregnancy vitamins that contain omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA. DHA is known for reducing the risk of preterm birth and improving birth weight. Several studies support the fact that children of mothers who took multivitamin supplements with DHA have better cognitive function and attention spans.

The recommended dosage of omega-3 is 200 to 300 mg of DHA per day to ensure optimal benefits.

Iodine for Thyroid Function and Cognitive Development

The body’s need for iodine increases significantly during pregnancy. Why? An adequate supply of iodine is essential for proper maternal thyroid function, which produces hormones crucial for fetal brain and nervous system development.

Additionally, it reduces pregnancy fatigue, supports energy production, and improves maternal metabolism. In contrast, insufficient iodine intake can lead to serious consequences for both mother and baby, including developmental delays, intellectual impairment, and an increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.

Iodine-rich foods include seafood, dairy, iodized salt, seaweed, eggs, bread, and some vegetables. Since pregnancy increases nutrient needs, the recommended daily dosage of iodine for pregnant women is 250 mcg. However, if your diet does not contain enough iodine, you can choose the top prenatal vitamins that will support your health during pregnancy.

B-Complex Vitamins for Energy Production and Fatigue Reduction

Pregnancy often brings fatigue because of hormonal changes, the physical strain of carrying a baby, and increased metabolism. B vitamins – including B1, B2, B6, B12, and Niacin – may support fetal development, red blood cell production, and nervous system function. In contrast, a vitamin B-complex deficiency may lead to irritability, weakness, and poor fetal growth.

Natural sources of B vitamins include whole grains, eggs, meat, and leafy greens. However, to ensure a consistent supply of B vitamins, you can choose one of the best multivitamin tablets for women tailored to your specific body needs.

Role of Multivitamins in Postpartum Health

Restoring Nutrients After Birth

Pregnancy and childbirth deplete nutrients as the growing baby draws essential vitamins and minerals from the mother’s body to support its development. To replenish these nutrients after birth, focus on a diet containing protein, iron, calcium, and B vitamins. Foods such as lean meat, fish, leafy greens, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables are rich in these nutrients.

Supporting Breastfeeding and Milk Production

Breastfeeding increases the demand for a healthy diet. To support milk production and your overall health, consume a diet rich in iron, calcium, vitamins, iodine, and protein. Foods such as eggs, meat, lentils, beans, and seafood are natural sources of these nutrients. Additionally, research suggests that some specific foods can promote milk production, such as fennel seeds, nuts, alfalfa sprouts, garlic, watermelon, carrots, and whole grains.

Managing Postpartum Fatigue and Mood Swings

After giving birth, hormonal fluctuations may cause postpartum fatigue and mood swings, and certain vitamins and minerals can help reduce these conditions. Nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, calcium, choline, magnesium, zinc, vitamin D, and omega-3 can improve energy levels and support overall emotional well-being.

Thus, multivitamin supplements can play a role in replenishing your nutrient reserves, promoting faster recovery, enhancing immunity, and reducing fatigue.

Tips for Choosing the Best Prenatal Vitamin

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing the best pregnancy vitamins? Which nutrients are essential for a healthy pregnancy? Let’s find the answers to these questions and find the prenatal vitamins that best suit your needs.

If you are trying to conceive, start taking prenatal vitamins as soon as possible because it is recommended to take supplements at least three months before conception or fertility treatments.
When selecting prenatal multivitamins, consider personal factors such as age, gender, and physical health. For instance, vitamin D is important for calcium absorption, which helps maintain bone health. If you cover up when outdoors or mostly stay indoors, you might be at risk of having inadequate vitamin D levels.
Even small things can cause discomfort during pregnancy. Therefore, choose a convenient prenatal supplement that is easy to find and nutritionally effective. For instance, if you are considering gummies for their taste, note that several healthcare providers suggest that pills generally provide more reliable levels of nutrients, especially iron, which is crucial during pregnancy.
Your prenatal supplement must include all the essential nutrients needed during pregnancy. Some vitamins for women are specifically tailored to each trimester, adapting to nutrient requirements as pregnancy progresses.
Choose a trusted brand that provides a high-quality prenatal supplement free from allergens and additives and certified by recognized bodies such as DRAP, GMP, ISO, and JECFA.
Lastly, prenatal vitamins should be organic and bioavailable to prevent risks to maternal and fetal health. To ensure their bioavailability, examine the list of ingredients and the forms of vitamins and minerals present. Bioavailable nutrient forms are easily absorbed and more effective.

Debunking Common Myths About Pregnancy Supplements

Why are supplements still necessary when I am on a healthy diet?
Despite a healthy diet, you may have nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, morning sickness, food aversions, and dietary restrictions can make it challenging to meet daily nutrient needs. Therefore, the best pregnancy vitamin supplements can help fill nutritional gaps and provide all the essential nutrients in balanced amounts that your body needs.
Should I take extra vitamins for a healthier baby?
While nutrients are important during pregnancy, excessive amounts of vitamins and minerals do not necessarily result in a healthier baby. In fact, higher amounts of supplements, such as vitamin A and iron, can harm you and your baby. Therefore, follow the recommended daily dosages for optimal health results.
Are all prenatal vitamins the same? How to choose the right one.
All pregnancy vitamins are not equal. Some lack essential nutrients, while others include non-bioavailable vitamins and minerals that are poorly absorbed into the body, reducing health benefits. Choosing high-quality vitamin supplements ensures better absorption and effectiveness, promoting optimal health for the mother and the baby.

The Bottom Line

A healthy pregnancy requires proper nutrition – and when diet is not enough, premium-quality supplements like Activit can bridge nutritional gaps. From supporting fetal development to easing postpartum recovery, multivitamin supplements offer comprehensive care for every stage of motherhood. However, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before choosing a prenatal vitamin tailored to your specific needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prenatal Vitamins

What type of pregnancy vitamins should you avoid?

When choosing the best prenatal supplements, it is equally important to know which ingredients to avoid. Some multivitamins for women in Pakistan may contain unnecessary additives or excessive amounts of certain nutrients that can be harmful during pregnancy. For instance, high doses of vitamin A may increase the risk of birth defects. That’s why it is best to choose prenatal vitamins that are free from additives, allergens, or synthetic binders like Activit.

When should you start taking prenatal vitamins?

Interestingly, prenatal vitamins can also benefit women who are not pregnant. They may support healthy skin, hair, and nails. However, if you are planning to conceive, it is best to start taking pregnancy vitamins at least one month in advance. These supplements contain essential nutrients such as iron and folic acid, which help prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.

Do prenatal vitamins have any side effects?

Yes, they can – although not everyone experiences them. Some women may notice nausea, constipation, or bloating, often due to their high iron content. Therefore, most healthcare providers recommend an organic prenatal multivitamin. With its natural formulation, Activit is a gentle and well-balanced supplement that provides all essential nutrients in optimal dosages.

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