Can Pregnant Women Take Nature Made Prenatal Vitamins?

Please consult Dr. Jan?

Hello Dr.
Jan, can pregnant women take this prenatal multivitamin? Below are the ingredients of Nature Made Prenatal Formula...
Nature Made Prenatal Formula contains folic acid with each capsule containing: Vitamin A 4,000 IU - 50%, Vitamin C 100 mg - 167%, Vitamin D 400 IU - 100%, Vitamin E 11 IU - 37%, Thiamin 1.5 mg - 88%, Riboflavin 1.7 mg - 85%, Niacin 18 mg - 90%, Vitamin B6 2.6 mg - 104%, Folate 800 mcg - 100%, Vitamin B12 4 mcg - 50%, Calcium 200 mg - 15%, Iron 27 mg - 150%, Zinc 25 mg - 167%.
Dosage: One capsule daily after meals.
If it is safe to take this Nature Made prenatal multivitamin, do I still need to supplement with calcium and fish oil (DHA)? What brand of vitamins should I take? Thank you for taking the time to read and respond carefully.
I appreciate it.

lu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/07/20

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Each capsule contains 200 micrograms of calcium.

Reply Date: 2004/07/20

More Info

Pregnant women can indeed take Nature Made Prenatal Vitamins, which are specifically formulated to support the nutritional needs of both the mother and the developing fetus. The ingredients listed in the Nature Made Prenatal Formula include essential vitamins and minerals that are crucial during pregnancy. For instance, the presence of folate (800 mcg) is particularly important as it helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing baby. The vitamin and mineral content, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron, and Zinc, contributes to the overall health of both the mother and the fetus.

The recommended dosage of one capsule per day after a meal is appropriate, as taking vitamins with food can enhance absorption and reduce the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort. However, it is essential for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, including prenatal vitamins, to ensure they meet their specific health needs.

Regarding the need for additional supplements, the Nature Made Prenatal Vitamins already contain a significant amount of calcium (200 mg) and iron (27 mg). However, the daily calcium requirement during pregnancy is typically around 1,000 mg, which means that additional calcium supplementation may be necessary, especially if dietary intake is insufficient. Pregnant women should aim to consume calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods to help meet their calcium needs.

As for fish oil (DHA), it is beneficial for fetal brain development. While the Nature Made Prenatal Vitamins do not specifically list DHA, many healthcare providers recommend additional DHA supplementation during pregnancy. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is crucial for the development of the baby's brain and eyes. Pregnant women should look for high-quality fish oil supplements that are specifically labeled for pregnancy and ensure they are free from harmful contaminants.

When considering brands for additional supplements, it is advisable to choose reputable brands that have undergone third-party testing for quality and purity. Some well-known brands include Nordic Naturals, Garden of Life, and New Chapter, which offer prenatal DHA supplements.

In summary, Nature Made Prenatal Vitamins are suitable for pregnant women and provide essential nutrients needed during pregnancy. However, additional supplementation of calcium and DHA may be necessary depending on individual dietary intake and health needs. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations and to ensure the safety and appropriateness of any supplements during pregnancy.

Similar Q&A

Best Prenatal Vitamins and Calcium Supplements for Expecting Mothers

During the third month of pregnancy, it's important to supplement with a comprehensive prenatal vitamin and calcium. I recommend looking for reputable brands that are specifically formulated for pregnant women. Some well-regarded options include Nature Made Prenatal Multi + ...

Dr. Cai Xiuwen reply Nutrition
Hello! The nutritional requirements during the early stages of pregnancy, according to the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) recommended by the Ministry of Health and Welfare in Taiwan, are as follows: Vitamin C 110 mg, Vitamin B6 1.9 mg, Vitamin B12 2.6 µg, and Folic Acid 600 µg....

Is It Safe to Take Prenatal Vitamins in Early Pregnancy?

My wife started taking prenatal vitamins (Xinpao Nado) two weeks into her pregnancy. Since it's my first time being a dad and I saw advertisements suggesting to start taking them from the first day of pregnancy, I didn't think much and bought them for her. Now that we a...

Dr. Zhuang Zhijian reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, thank you for your question. In general, it is not recommended to take any supplements during the early stages of pregnancy. If supplementation is necessary, it is advised to start after the first trimester. As for prenatal supplements, they typically contain vitamins and ...

Essential Prenatal Vitamins: Safe Dosage and Timing for Expecting Mothers

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about preparing for pregnancy. Due to long-term eating out, I bought a bottle of prenatal vitamins to supplement my nutrition. I noticed that the vitamin A content is 2250 IU. I would like to know if this amount is too high. Can prenatal vitamins...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, a balanced diet provides sufficient nutrition, so it's not always necessary to take vitamins. Generally, a daily dose of one vitamin is acceptable, and pregnant women can take their vitamins in the evening. Wishing you good health!

Is It Safe to Take Nature Made Fish Oil During Pregnancy?

Hello Doctor: I am a pregnant woman who is over 31 weeks along. Recently, I went to Costco to purchase calcium and fish oil, and I consulted with the pharmacist present, so I have been taking the products with peace of mind. However, today I unexpectedly came across a blog by ano...

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
During pregnancy, it is generally understood that any medication should be avoided unless it is necessary and effective, in order to prevent adverse effects on the fetus. Pregnant women should not consume excessive amounts of fish oil, which is rich in fat-soluble vitamins. After...