Growing a baby is a lot of work for your body! That’s why nutrient requirements for many essential nutrients increase during this important time. Pregnant women should eat a well-balanced diet and take a prenatal multivitamin every day to support their nutritional needs and the needs of their developing baby. Folic Acid is especially important, as adequate Folic Acid in healthful diets may reduce a woman’s risk of having a child with a neural tube defect. Some essential nutrients, such as Iron, Choline, Calcium, Vitamin D and DHA, will support your baby’s growth and development throughout your pregnancy. These nutrients can be found in prenatal multivitamins or additional dietary supplements.+

After birth, consider switching to a postnatal multivitamin to support your changing nutritional needs. After all, your body has gone through a lot in the last nine months! Prenatal and postnatal vitamins are formulated to support both mom and baby’s specific needs during each of these special phases. For example, pregnant women have higher Folic Acid and Iron needs to support baby’s development, and after birth these needs shift. New moms will want to consider a postnatal multivitamin as many nutrient needs remain higher during this time, especially if breastfeeding. A postnatal multi will have many essential vitamins and minerals moms need while nursing to support you and your growing baby.+