Vitamins for pregnant women from what period. Do expectant mothers need vitamins? How to choose a multivitamin

A woman's body during pregnancy, working in an enhanced mode, should receive an increased complex of vitamins.

Giving the child all the most useful substances from her own body, a woman must reimburse them in a timely manner. What vitamins to drink during pregnancy? Currently, there are many vitamin complexes that include everything needed for mothers and children.

During this period, it is very important to receive proper nutrition, both the well-being of the pregnant woman and the successful development of the child depend on it. But even with the daily intake of such products in food, the pregnant woman needs vitamin preparations. The thing is that the expectant mother should receive these substances in a double dose, since not only she, but also her child needs them.

It is necessary to take vitamins for pregnant women, which are best decided by the doctor. After a thorough examination of the pregnant woman, the specialist will prescribe those vitamins that are needed from the very first weeks of pregnancy.

The drugs of the first weeks differ from the drugs prescribed later, since at different periods there are certain changes in the development of the baby. The formation of its nervous system requires certain substances that differ from the elements necessary for the development of bone and muscular systems without pathologies. These processes take place in different trimesters of pregnancy, so the doctor should pay attention to the need to take those drugs that are most needed in a particular period.

First trimester

During this period, the body of the expectant mother, trying to rebuild for the most favorable stay in the womb, may weaken. Often in this trimester, pregnancy is difficult, the woman suffers from toxicosis, there is a threat of miscarriage and it is at this stage that the child's internal organs begin to form.

Therefore, vitamins during early pregnancy are prescribed to strengthen the woman's body and keep the child in the most favorable conditions.

The following vitamins are usually prescribed in the first trimester of pregnancy:

Vitamin B6

There is a need for this vitamin during this period. It improves the well-being of a woman with toxicosis, in addition, relieves spasms and soothes.

To replenish this vitamin, a pregnant woman is often prescribed Magne B6. This product contains vitamin B and magnesium, which has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and normalizes the tone of the uterus.

Folic acid (B9)

Taking this vitamin is necessary from the very first days of pregnancy, and even better before it. The lack of vitamin B9 in the body of the expectant mother is dangerous because of hypovitaminosis for her, and for the baby it can cause spinal defects and other malformations.

Vitamin B9 contributes to the full development of the central nervous system of the fetus.

Vitamin A

It is important for the development of the child. It normalizes the process of cell division, its reception is necessary for the growth and weight gain of the baby. This vitamin is taken as prescribed by a doctor, in the case when a deficiency of this component is recorded.

Overdose leads to intoxication. May lead to undesirable consequences in the development of the baby, heart disease.

Vitamin A is found in large quantities in the liver, vegetables and fruits, as well as in fish oil. Its absorption by the body is higher if consumed with food rich in fats.

In the early stages of pregnancy, a woman needs to take care of a set of foods rich in these substances.

In addition to the transferred vitamins, iron supplements are prescribed at the first stage of pregnancy. It is not part of a multivitamin for pregnant women, so it is taken separately from other products.

Iron is essential for maintaining normal hemoglobin levels for both the mother and the baby. The lack of this element threatens anemia.

Second trimester

During this period, some others are added to the vitamins taken earlier.

Vitamin D

These vitamins during pregnancy prevent the development of rickets in the child. In the second trimester, the child begins to actively grow. Growth is accompanied by the development of bones, which so need vitamin D. It is often prescribed in conjunction with calcium, since their joint absorption is much higher.

Calcium is found in large quantities in cottage cheese, kefir, cheese. Often, women during pregnancy, lacking this element, gobble up chalk with great pleasure.

Vitamin D enters the human body along with the sun's rays. In winter, it is necessary to take preparations of this vitamin, since the activity of the sun is lower.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is just as important for pregnant women.

For a woman in a position, this vitamin is necessary starting from the second trimester of pregnancy. With the growth of the child, the woman's belly grows, which leads to the appearance of stretch marks. Vitami E helps to improve skin firmness.

In addition, it is necessary for the normal condition of the placenta. A lack of vitamin E can negatively affect its functioning and cause a threat of miscarriage.

This vitamin is an excellent antioxidant, protects against infectious diseases, improves blood circulation and helps the normal movement of oxygen from mother to baby.

A woman's body is capable of producing vitamin E on its own, so it should be taken only if there is a deficiency. It is worth remembering that an overdose of this vitamin can be dangerous.

The need to take vitamin E, the dosage should be prescribed by a doctor, in cases where the body is not able to produce it in sufficient quantities. The daily dose for pregnancy is 200 to 400 mg.

In addition to preparations containing this vitamin, it can be obtained in large quantities by eating seafood, cereals, nuts, sorrel and prunes.

Third trimester

Supplements to the intake of vitamins during pregnancy are vitamin K, vitamin C.

Vitamin K

The need for this vitamin is due to the final formation of the unborn baby. This component is involved in the formation of the skeletal system, protein synthesis.

Lack of vitamin K during pregnancy can lead to spinal problems.

Foods rich in this vitamin are greens, nuts, legumes, cabbage, dried fruits.

Vitamin C

The benefits of this vitamin are known, it must be obtained in sufficient quantities for all people, and especially during pregnancy. It is able to strengthen the body, increase its resistance to viruses, which is especially necessary for a pregnant woman.

Vitamin C can be obtained by eating citrus fruits, herbs, rose hips.

An essential set of vitamins during pregnancy

A woman needs to take vitamins during pregnancy, as her body needs to receive more of them due to the growth of the fetus. With the course of pregnancy, fetal development entails depletion of the body of the expectant mother. She gives all the substances the baby needs, thereby lacking. Lack of vitamins leads to anemia, toxicosis, general weakness.

The best vitamins for pregnant women are found in foods. It is important during this period to properly formulate the diet. Food should be varied and healthy. The daily routine is very important, where great importance is attached to walking and being in the fresh air.

However, it is not always possible to get everything from food, even with a carefully balanced diet. Therefore, a woman should take a complex of vitamins during pregnancy in the form of medicines.

You need to know what vitamins to drink during pregnancy, because not all drugs found in a pharmacy are suitable for a pregnant woman.

One should beware of the inscription "is not a drug." Dietary supplements (dietary supplements) rarely contain the required dose of vitamins. Therefore, it is better to use proven drugs.

Vitamins for pregnant women 1 trimester:

  • folic acid;
  • magne B6;
  • vitamin A;
  • iron.

Vitamins - 2 trimester:

  • calcium + vitamin D;
  • vitamin E;

vitamins - 3 trimester:

  • vitamin C;
  • vitamin K.

Currently, there are many drugs specially designed for use by pregnant women; they have a complex of essential vitamins and minerals for each stage of pregnancy. Among these drugs.

  1. Elevit Pronatal.
  2. Vitrum Prenatal Forte.

About these vitamins for pregnant women, reviews talk about both the pros and some cons of the drugs.

This is what the women who received them write.

  1. I am a mother of three children, all three pregnancies proceeded with low hemoglobin, so iron supplements were constantly prescribed. In addition to them, in the third pregnancy, she decided to take Complivit (mother). These vitamins suited me. Relatively inexpensive, contain all the necessary complex. (Ekaterina, 34 years old).
  2. For the first time they prescribed Complivit (mother), but side effects were found: nausea, heart prickling. I had to refuse and intensively eat vegetables and fruits. Now the second pregnancy, Elevit Pronatal chose, there were no side effects, however, a little expensive. (Victoria, 25 years old).
  3. I was satisfied with Alphabet (mom's health), these multivitamins contain everything I need, there were no side effects, although I tolerate all the medications well. Together with these vitamins, I take preparations containing iodine and iron. (Anna, 20 years old).
  4. Took Complivit (mother) helped very well with toxicosis. Now the second pregnancy, the toxicosis is terrible, the effect is zero, I will have to change the drug. (Svetlana, 27 years old).
  5. I took Vitrum Prenatal Forte, good vitamins, in the composition of the entire necessary complex, however, they can cause side effects. I tolerated taking the drug well, nothing side effects were observed, in addition, I took it during breastfeeding. Vitamins helped during lactation, there was a lot of milk, fed for 2 years. (Natalia, 26 years old).

Pregnancy is an important stage in a woman's life. She must take care not only of her own health, but also of the health of the unborn baby. Therefore, it is important that both receive all the necessary substances in sufficient quantities. The best way to do this is a balanced diet with vitamins and hiking in the fresh air.

5 votes

Pregnant women are almost always prescribed vitamins, regardless of whether she is in good health or not. At the same time, no one asks her to be tested for vitamins to check whether they are needed at all.

The situation is so familiar that you probably met it even before pregnancy - in the movies, in books, in the stories of friends, everywhere.

However, as well as the common belief: "you think that you are pregnant - by running on an ultrasound scan", the statement: "now you need to drink a lot of vitamins" is not true! We hand over ultrasound only at 12 weeks, not earlier. And to make sure of pregnancy, we donate blood for the hCG hormone.

It's the same with vitamins, you really need them now. But not synthetic, but created by nature.

Vitamins are not a box of pills, not powders or capsules. Vitamins are fruits, vegetables and herbs! This must be remembered for a long life.

Let's figure it out together whether you need to take vitamins during pregnancy.

Scientists prove the harm of synthetic vitamins


Beginning in 2002, amazing studies began to appear in the West, which denied the benefits of synthetic vitamins and even confirmed their harm!

Most of the research concerned vitamins such as folic acid (B9), vitamins A, C, E.

British scientists came to the conclusion that excessive intake (more than 1500 mcg per day) negatively affects human bone density and thereby increases the risk of hip fracture by 2 times.

Researchers on the effects of artificial beta-carotene have come to the conclusion that it promotes cancer in smokers, and does not prevent it, as previously thought.

In 2004, Americans were associated with the risk of premature death.

A 2011 study claimed that taking a multivitamin by women reduced their life expectancy.

These results generated tremendous interest in vitamins from researchers and physicians.

Discussions, discussions, reconciliation began, the search for additional factors, besides vitamins, which could lead to such disastrous results.

And this has already led to the fact that in 2012 in America a large study was conducted on the effect of taking multivitamins on heart and vascular health. The study was prepared in accordance with all the rules, a special commission strictly monitored this.

The results of this study, The Harvard Physicians' Study II, state:

« Taking vitamins had no effect
to prevent heart disease,
a decrease in the number of strokes or a person's overall life expectancy.

Multivitamins should be removed from the program
prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

The message must remain simple and clear: heart disease can only be prevented through a healthy lifestyle. »

What does all this mean?

About the fact that at the turn of the 21st century it became clear that vitamins taken for the good are not beneficial, that is, they do not perform their functions, at best, taking vitamins does not affect the body in any way, at worst it is also harmful.

This is an extremely revolutionary statement for our doctors.

Neither in Russia, nor in the CIS, this news did not become a sensation for the general public; it is simply not noticed. And here it's not even a matter of commercial pressure from pharmacists, although this market is huge and has unprecedented prospects - US residents, for example, spend $ 11 billion a year on vitamins, but the fact that we have much more pressing problems than the effect of vitamins on reduction in mortality from cardiovascular diseases.

However, remember, all change starts with the pregnant woman. From the mother. From you. It is you who create the beginning of the future person, his habits, his nutrition. It depends on you: - will he continue to eat like everyone else, and then he will be treated like everyone else, or something will change in his usual way.

Therefore, I want you to remember, there are no life-saving pills, they are not among the pills, supplements, synthetic vitamins. All you need is greens, vegetables and fruits.


Only living vitamins contained in raw plant foods are capable of changing something in us, somehow improving our condition, curing diseases.

Scientists fail to synthesize "live" vitamins

Science has not yet succeeded in synthesizing any vitamin the way nature did, so that all proportions were taken into account.

In the form of a vitamin, a separate plant component is synthesized without taking into account the fact that, firstly, during the synthesis the component becomes dead, and secondly, it is in no way taken into account what this component was surrounded by.

Indeed, in the same sesame seed, there is not only calcium, but a number of elements in different proportions: 1000 mg of calcium, 500 mg of potassium, 600 - phosphorus, 350 - magnesium, 14.5 - iron, vitamins B1 (0.98 mg), B2 (0 , 25mg), B3 (5.4 mg).


Why this composition is exactly the same, how important it is, whether it is a decisive factor, all this is still unknown to science.

We are just beginning to get closer to understanding and studying these issues. However, without even thoroughly studying the reason why plants heal a person, but vitamins do not, we can start using them in the diet and solve pressing problems.

“Biologists find certain vitamins in various substances,
a little later they open,
that vitamin is not a simple substance, it is made up of dozens of others,
for each of which they choose a name.

Gradually, they notice that a certain
the vitamin does not show its strength in the absence of others,
they take this into account and introduce
a whole series of similar substances into the body.

The effect of artificial vitamins on human
the body is obvious and contradictory.
We can show this again with the example of people,
who build a house of bricks
putting them row by row and without cementing them with mortar,
and then, in order to correct this error,
they cook a whole barrel
(a barrel is about 164 liters) of low quality
mortar and pour it onto the building all at once.

It is only natural that this solution will protect
building from wind and rain for a while,
but it will not lead to a connection between bricks and of course,
will never hold the inner layers of the structure together.

Sometimes they use a huge amount of this fake
material and then this building, whose foundation is too unstable,
just collapses. This state of affairs happens sometimes
with the introduction of vitamins into the body,
when the patient dies immediately after the injection.

Arshavir Ter-Avanesyan

“... natural molecules, although they have the same chemical composition with those produced industrially, but their spatial structure is completely different, and namely therefore, living organisms very poorly assimilate them.

And, in addition, the molecules of living organisms differ from those produced industrially by the fact that the latter are dead, in the literal and figurative sense of the word "

Academician N.V. Levashova and doctor L.K. Roslomy

Synthetic folic acid

An example of the fact that scientists are not yet able to recreate a vitamin identical to natural is folic acid.

Take a look at what scientists have concluded about taking our favorite folic acid:

“Folic acid is a synthetic compound natural substitute "folia, "which is found in dark leafy greens and legumes.

However, everyone knows that almost no one eats enough greens and legumes every day.

Therefore, in 1998, artificial folic acid was synthesized, it, of course, was not identical in everything to natural, it alone was cheaper, and it was easier to work with it - it is easier to put it in a tablet form.

In addition, studies in rats have shown that rat liver is capable of converting artificial folic acid into natural folic acid.

However, study after study has shown a link between folate intake and diseases such as breast and colon cancer.

It turns out that the risk of birth defects in the fetus decreases, and the risk of cancer increases?

However, spinach (as a source of folate) does not increase the risk of cancer.Legumes and greens reduce both the risk of birth defects in the fetus and the risk of cancer.

It was a big mystery until last year, when scientists finally realized that humans are not rats.

It turned out that the enzymes that convert artificial folic acid into a compound that our body can freely use in humans is 50 times less active than in rats.

Due to the fact that our enzymes are "infinitely slow", artificial folic acid just dangles freely in the body and this may be the reason for the increased likelihood of getting cancer. While greens and legumes help fight both scourges at the same time. "

"Can Folic Acid Be Harmful?", Dr. Michael Gregor,
http://nutritionfacts.org/video/can-folic-acid-be-harmful/ ,

What else can you add to the words of Dr. Gregor, who presented the findings of the latest research on folic acid?

Probably only that the word folic acid itself comes from Latin acidum foliumwhere folium is a leaf.


Again, the essence of the word itself tells us that we are drinking green leaf acid, artificially created for us by chemists anew. The question remains - why are we doing this? After all, there is a huge amount of greenery around! Even in winter.

The role of folic acid in pregnancy

Folic acid is infinitely important during pregnancy.

Since the intake of a sufficient amount of folic acid at the time of conception can significantly reduce the chances of giving birth to a baby with neural tube defects... And these are the most common birth defects, second only to congenital heart anomalies.

What are called neural tube defects:

Anencephaly and spina bifida.Anencephaly characterized by an open neural tube in the head region with complete or partial absence of the brain and cranial vault

Spina bifida characterized by exposure or release of the contents of the spinal cord (membranes and / or nerve tissue) through a bone defect in the subsequent vertebral arches

NTDs are the results of neurulation abnormalities (closure of nerve folds and neuropores before neural tube formation), a process that usually ends within the first 28 days after conception

Therefore, you should take my recommendation very seriously - watch the amount of folic acid consumed with food.

The blog will contain separate detailed articles about all important vitamins, macro and micronutrients. I will show you all herbal sources of vitamins and give you simple recipes.

If you do not have the opportunity to eat vegetables and herbs rich in folic acid, well you simply have no choice, you must take artificially synthesized folic acid at this time. Since the risk of congenital anomalies is very high, and here you will have to choose between the benefits of the child and the harm caused by the drug to you. However, I still advise you to opt for fresh herbs.

Vitamins must come from food

So, it is quite obvious that vitamins should be eaten with food. However, with which one? An animal? Vegetable? Maybe boiled?

The fact is that vitamins are very easily destroyed when heated, oxidized in the sun, destroyed when mixed with oxygen - during grinding.

Judge for yourself:

Vitamins that are highly or moderately heat sensitive: vitamin A, D3, E, K, B1, B3, B5, B6, B12, B9 (folic acid), C.

Therefore, if you boil a potato, which is said to contain a lot of vitamin C, and boil it for about 20 minutes at the boiling point, then there will be no vitamin C there.

There is simply no question of any animal food as a source of vitamins. Even if you imagine that you will find completely environmentally friendly meat, liver, lard of animals - in any case, you cannot eat them raw. You will fry, boil, stew and thereby destroy all the vitamins that are there.

Whether we can generally assimilate any vitamins by eating animal flesh is a big question for me.

The conclusion is quite simple: all vitamins should be obtained only from raw plant foods.


Look carefully at the table of the reaction of vitamins to light, heat, oxidation:


CONCLUSIONS:

  1. Scientists cannot yet artificially recreate vitamins. The supposedly beneficial artificial vitamins that are obtained in the end can either be harmful or not bring any benefit at all.
  2. There is no point in taking a multivitamin during pregnancy. It is important to monitor the intake of all vitamins from food.
  3. Artificially synthesized folic acid helps prevent fetal malformations, but can lead to cancer in the long term.
  4. Be sure to take enough folic acid during pregnancy. in the form of fresh dark leafy greens.
  5. Synthetic folic acid intake is only justified in critical situationswhen you can't afford to take in enough greens.
  6. Nearly all vitamins are heat sensitive... Therefore, the only source of vitamins can be considered raw plant foods: greens, raw nuts, sprouted seeds, wheat, raw vegetables, raw fruits.
  7. Taking vitamin E linked to osteoporosis: research - Yahoo News Singapore
  8. Ashavir Ter-Avanesyan "Raw Food"

For more information on clinical trials of many nutrients, dietary supplements, and other substances, see:

  • in the database "International Bibliographic Information on Dietary Supplement" (IBIDS)
  • the Cochrane Collaboration Library
  • Comprehensive database on natural medicines (Natural Medicines Сomprehensive Database)
  • electronic databases Evidence Based Medicine (EBM, UK), DynaMed (Dynamic Medical Information Systems - DynaMed, USA) and other sources.

The correct lifestyle during pregnancy is the key to the health of the unborn baby, therefore it is very important to follow the recommendations not only regarding rest, physical activity and work schedule, but also to pay attention to nutrition during pregnancy. Most of the vitamins and minerals that are so necessary for the health of the mother and the proper development of the baby come from food. Often, doctors prescribe to expectant mothers and vitamin complexes to make up for the lack of nutrients. Let's figure out when and what prenatal vitamins need to be accepted and what are they actually for?

Multivitamins during pregnancynot everyone needs to accept. If a woman has a normal diet, then she can receive nutrients in the right doses from food. The main thing is to know what and in what quantities to eat, because at different stages of pregnancy, mother and child need a different set of nutrients and vitamins.

Video: Do \u200b\u200bpregnant women need vitamins?

Vitamins for pregnant women: 1 trimester

During this important period, expectant mothers should definitely take folic acid, calcium, vitamins C, A, E, iodine.

Vitamin B9 cannot be ignored. Preparations with a high content of folic acid should be drunk 2-3 months before conception and continue until the end of the 1st trimester of pregnancy.

The required dosage can be selected by your attending physician depending on the state of the body: it is 0.4-0.8 mg per day.

If a woman has been taking hormonal contraceptives for a long time, the dose may be higher.

Water-soluble folic acid prepares the body for conception, it promotes cell division, the formation of the placenta, and the correct transmission of information at the genetic level. Timely intake of folic acid will reduce the risk of miscarriage or missed pregnancy. It is very important to take the vitamin at 2-4 weeks of pregnancy, when the fetal neural tube is forming, from which the brain later forms.

If a woman's body lacks this vitamin, this can lead to malformations of the baby - nervous hernias and brain underdevelopment. Also, folic acid is involved in the production of hemoglobin, with a lack of it, folic acid deficiency anemia develops, which is characterized by symptoms such as pallor, constant fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness. A pregnant woman may be disturbed by recurrent abdominal pain, discomfort in the spleen area. Lack of folate during pregnancy not only negatively affects the mother's condition, but is also dangerous for the baby's health. It is worth knowing that from the daily diet we get about 50% of the vitamin norm, so doctors often prescribe this drug additionally.

Where is folic acid found? - In legumes, spinach, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, chicken and beef liver, wholemeal flour products.

It is necessary to take such complexes both before the expected pregnancy and during the first trimester. Then they take a break and continue drinking only 2 months before giving birth.

The optimal dosage of vitamin A should not be higher than 5000 IU, during pregnancy it decreases to 2500 IU. Excess vitamin can lead to abnormal development of the nervous and cardiovascular system of the fetus. Vitamin A is essential for the development of the child's visual system, skeleton and nervous system.

Fish oil and liver are good sources of vitamin A. From plant sources it is worth highlighting dried apricots, carrots, celery, sea buckthorn fruits, rowan berries, apricots, rose hips, peaches, tomatoes, bell peppers. Do not forget that vitamin A is absorbed only with fats, so it is advisable to season fruits and vegetables with cream or sour cream.

It is advisable to take it shortly before conception and during the first three months of pregnancy. Its daily intake is 15 mg.

Vitamin E during pregnancy helps to normalize hormonal levels, stabilizes the menstrual cycle and promotes conception. In the first trimester, vitamin E is involved in the creation of the placenta and prevents abortion.

This vitamin is contained in sunflower, corn, olive and sea buckthorn oils. Among the plants, it is worth highlighting the rose hips, tomatoes, lettuce, peas, parsley and spinach. Some amount of vitamin E is found in eggs, liver, meat and dairy products.

Vitamins for pregnant women: 2 trimester

In the second trimester, expectant mothers can breathe calmly - the manifestations of toxicosis decrease, the body is completely rebuilt to the new rhythm of life, pregnancy becomes more noticeable. Of course, the expectant mother develops an appetite, so the quality and quantity of food consumed must be monitored. At this time, the body of the mother and baby is in great need of calcium, iodine and iron.

Most often, it is prescribed for 4-5 months, a contraindication is a violation of the thyroid gland. The daily norm of iodine is 250 mg.

This element is necessary for the production of hormones that are responsible for the formation of the baby's support system and substances responsible for mental development. Due to a lack of iodine, the expectant mother's metabolism is disturbed, chronic fatigue appears, nails and hair lose their natural beauty, the skin becomes dry.

A source of iodine can be sea salt, dried figs, kelp, seafood, sea fish.

Calcium.

Vitamins for pregnant women 2 trimestersalso include calcium. Its daily allowance should be 1500 mg.

Everyone knows that this element contributes to the formation of a normal
skeleton, participates in the laying of the endocrine system and kidneys. If the expectant mother does not get enough calcium from food, the doctor may prescribe vitamins.

As for natural sources of calcium, fermented milk products are the top priority. Calcium absorption is restrained by animal fats, so it is advisable to opt for low-fat foods. You should also include cabbage, kohlrabi, broccoli in your diet.

Vitamins for pregnant women: 3 trimester

The 28th week of pregnancy marked that the woman had successfully overcome 2 trimesters and entered the most crucial phase. During this period, the child's organs are actively formed, and the load on the mother's body increases significantly. Therefore, proper nutrition and daily routine is not a luxury, but a necessity. Pregnant women need vitamins A, C, D and iron.

Video: About the Elevit product line

Iron.

This element is the best prevention of anemia, it eliminates muscle weakness, keeps the uterus in good shape. Iron is especially important for women who are at risk of miscarriage. The normal level of iron in the blood is 15, if this indicator is reduced to 12, it means that the pregnant woman has a latent deficiency of this element.

The best sources of iron are veal, followed by turkey, pork, and rabbit. The body absorbs 11% of iron from fish, only 3% from eggs. From food of plant origin, this element is absorbed worse. Coffee and tea block the absorption of iron, so in the third trimester it is advisable to drink plain water and fresh juices.

Vitamin D.

The list would be incomplete without vitamin D. It is prescribed to almost all women in the 3rd trimester as prevention of rickets in an unborn child.

The expectant mother should take 400 IU of vitamin D per day. It is necessary for the proper formation of the skeleton of the baby and the development of the cardiovascular system.

Vitamin D is almost absent in plant foods. Its main sources are fish oil, fish, preferably the liver of salmon, cod, and other varieties. Also, a certain amount of this element is found in egg yolks, milk, butter.

Video: Vitamins for pregnant women

Vitamin C is required for taking in the 1st and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. If the expectant mother has a habit such as smoking, vitamin C should be taken before conception.

The daily intake of this vitamin is 90-100 mg. It is necessary for the formation of the placenta and membranes of the ovum. It also supports mom's immunity,
otherwise, the expectant mother and baby would be defenseless against infections and pathogens.

Vitamin C is found in potatoes, cabbage, bell peppers, carrots, parsley and dill, and various fruits of the citrus family. Vitamin C loses its properties upon contact with air.

Eat right and do not neglect vitamins, we wish you and your baby health!

Agree that nutrition, while carrying a baby, plays almost the most important role. You carefully compose your diet in order to enrich it with a variety of valuable substances.

Now we are told everywhere that vitamins are necessary in early pregnancy, but is this really so?

Is it really, from the first day of pregnancy, you need to treat it as a dangerous disease that requires additional pills?

Let's figure it out.

Nutrition during pregnancy

If you are planning a pregnancy or are already in a position, then the very first moment that needs to be reconsidered is the quality and diet.

Create a diet based on the principle of the most healthy and natural foods. A variety of meals during certain times of the year will allow you to stock up on all the nutrients you need.

  • Provide a balanced amount of fats, proteins and carbohydrates with daily inclusion of meat, fish, cereals, dairy products, vegetables, fruits in the menu;
  • Try to avoid junk food: soda, too spicy, salty and smoked food, various semi-finished products;
  • Reduce the use of muffins, pastries, sweets (read the article on the topic: Sweet during pregnancy \u003e\u003e\u003e);
  • When gastronomic delights arise, do not ignore the signals, as the body declares a lack of some necessary elements.

Important! If examinations show a lack of any substances in the body, then they can be fully replenished by adjusting your diet.

The best vitamins for early pregnancy are those that came with food, and were not manufactured in an obscure chemical plant.

Pregnancy is not a disease, but the natural state of a woman. Your task is to help your own body pass this stage with dignity, without serious losses and complications.

How to eat right during pregnancy, you will learn from our book Secrets of proper nutrition for expectant mother \u003e\u003e\u003e.

There are no abstruse words and terms in it, but there is a detailed daily diet and a convenient scheme for making a menu for a week.

Vitamins that must be taken at the beginning of pregnancy

The best vitamins for the 1st trimester of pregnancy are folic acid. All other vitamins must enter the body with food. If there is a suspicion of a lack of a specific vitamin, then donate blood biochemistry and make sure of this.

Before drinking pharmacy vitamins, try adding to your food those foods that contain the vitamin you need.

Folic acid (vitamin B9)

Folic acid refers to the component, without which the full formation of the baby is impossible. If you are just planning a pregnancy, then you will definitely be prescribed vitamin B9 2 to 3 months before the expected conception and at the beginning of the development of the fetus.

Know! The truth is that your body is unable to synthesize folic acid, but rather obtains it from food or dosage forms. Moreover, medicine assures that this element is better absorbed from tablets.

Since the required daily allowance at the initial stage of pregnancy is from 400 mcg, it is rather difficult to extract it only from the diet.

Vitamin B9 plays a critical role in:

  1. the formation of the baby's nervous system;
  2. the processes of assimilation of iron by the mother's body;
  3. cell division and correct transmission of genetic data;
  4. maturation of the placenta, which prevents a frozen pregnancy and miscarriage.

The richest foods in folate:

  • beef liver,
  • cod liver,
  • spinach,
  • walnuts,
  • hazelnut

If the gynecologist prescribes vitamin B9 for you, in no case should you neglect its intake. Remember that a deficiency of this element is fraught with developmental disorders of your baby, such as:

  • hydrocephalus (dropsy of the brain);
  • anencephaly (lack of a brain);
  • other disorders in the structure of the skull and brain;
  • mental and mental underdevelopment;
  • physical deformities and defects (cleft lip, cleft palate, etc.);
  • premature birth;
  • low birth weight of children.

Folic acid will also have beneficial effects on your body. It will help strengthen the immune system, support the work of the heart and circulatory system. It will also reduce the risk of postpartum stress.

Vitamin E (tocopherol)

What vitamins are needed in early pregnancy? Another vitamin that is often prescribed to expectant mothers at the beginning of pregnancy is vitamin E.

  1. This component is responsible for the production of female hormones, thereby normalizing the reproductive function of your body;
  2. Tocopherol is able to protect pregnancy from spontaneous abortion;
  3. It regulates the functions of the endocrine system, helping to maintain performance;
  4. Vitamin E has an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effect, prevents blood clots;
  5. The element is involved in the production of the hormone prolactin, which is necessary for further lactation.

Your body's daily requirement during pregnancy is around 20 mg of tocopherol. Depending on the state of health and test results, the doctor may prescribe from 200 to 400 mg per day.

These are primarily vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, cereals, bran, some vegetables, berries and fruits. The component is also contained in food of animal origin: meat, liver, eggs.

Vitamins according to indications

To determine which vitamins to drink in early pregnancy, in addition to the mandatory ones, take a biochemical blood test. It is possible that there will be a lack of iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium or other important elements.

  • Throughout Russia, iodine deficiency is experienced by the majority of the population. This component ensures the work of the thyroid gland, which, in turn, is responsible for the hormonal background of the woman;

Iodine is essential for the normal mental and physical development of both the child and you. Include appropriate foods in your diet.

  • Low hemoglobin will indicate a lack of iron, which is monitored throughout pregnancy with a routine fingerstick test. In a state of anemia, the child suffers from hypoxia, lack of oxygen;
  • Calcium deficiency is fraught with tooth decay, hair loss, and nail damage. And the baby lacks building material for building a skeleton (read about when and what develops in a baby growing in your tummy in the article Development of a baby in the womb \u003e\u003e\u003e).

All these elements are of course necessary and important, but whether it is possible to assimilate them from the so-called "best vitamins for pregnant women in the 1st trimester", which include Vitrum, Materna, Alphabet, is a big question.

  1. The problem with all chemically synthesized vitamins is that they are quickly incorporated into the body and, thus, do not allow vitamins to be absorbed from food;
  2. The body relaxes, stops extracting vitamins from food and you, like drugs, are put on pharmacy vitamins;
  3. This is very beneficial for their producers. And instilling in you that from the first weeks of pregnancy you need complex vitamins is also part of sales marketing.

BUT! Your task is to bear a healthy child, and their task is to sell as much as possible.

Nowadays, many children are born and suffer from allergies of unknown origin. Mothers are on diets, they suffer, the arms and legs of the children are scaly and itchy and no one can explain the reason.

But one of the probable reasons is just the constant intake of chemical vitamins by the mother during pregnancy.

A smart approach for you

When you are preparing to become a mother or are already in a position, do not rush to think: what vitamins to take in the early stages of pregnancy. All you need is folic acid.

  • If your body is weakened, hemoglobin is low or you are waiting for the second, third baby, and the period between childbirth is 2 - 3 years, then, only in this case, taking multivitamins is possible;
  • But it is better to choose the most natural vitamins and drink them in courses, separately:

We drank iron, then calcium with vitamin D3, then potassium, etc.

A relatively healthy body does not need additional substances.

  • Some saturated complexes can cause blood clots, allergic reactions in you, which can go to the child;
  • Consider the fact that synthetic vitamins are absorbed by half and can provoke dangerous compounds;
  • An excess of vitamins is more dangerous than a deficiency. To remove excess elements, the liver and kidneys will have to work in an enhanced mode.

Before deciding whether to drink vitamins in early pregnancy, think a hundred times and do not harm your body and your own child once again. In this matter, it is important to follow an individual approach.


Pregnancy is a special period for any woman. At this time, the body is actively rebuilding, and the main task of the expectant mother is to help him with this. Of course, we all know what role vitamins play for the body. Pregnant girls need these nutrients more than others. While waiting for the baby, a woman spends a lot of energy and must fully replenish her vitamin reserve. First of all, a balanced diet can help with this, but a significant part is covered by the intake of special complexes.

Let's figure out how to choose the most suitable vitamins for yourself in the happiest period for any woman:

  1. Expert recommendation... It was not for nothing that we mentioned this aspect very first. Do not forget that when choosing any medicines, you first need to consult with a specialist. An experienced doctor will take into account the characteristics of each organism and tell you which monovitamins or complexes are most suitable for you.
  2. Components... Naturally, the benefits of any drug directly depend on its components. Experts believe that the main components of vitamin complexes for pregnant women should be folic acid, iodine and calcium. Be sure to pay attention to the dosage of each element. In no case should the body be oversaturated with any substance - this can lead to unpleasant consequences, as well as its lack.
  3. Purpose... Vitamins for pregnant women are designed to meet the needs of the female orgasm during this period. Depending on the period, the need for certain substances changes. Manufacturers offer highly targeted drugs containing several of the most important elements for each specific trimester. They can be both complex and consist of one component.

Please note that the information is for informational purposes only and is NOT a guide to purchase and use. Only specialist!

There are contraindications. Check with your doctor.

The best vitamins for pregnant women in the first trimester

4 Multi-tabs Perinatal

Top reviews
Country: Denmark
Average price: 650 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.4

The complex of Danish production Multi-tabs "Perinatal" is specially designed to maintain the well-being of a woman in early pregnancy. He has been collecting the best reviews for several years in a row and is the leader of most voting on the forums. The composition included 11 vitamins (A, E, C, D3, and a whole group of B) and minerals, for example: copper, calcium, manganese, iodine, chromium, iron. Equally important, the manufacturer did not use preservatives.

So, a combination of iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, vitamins A, E will reduce the likelihood of anemia, which is very often diagnosed by doctors in pregnant women in the 1st trimester. And the combination of copper, selenium, zinc, iodine, folic acid and vitamin B6 will significantly affect the correct and systematic growth of the fetus. It is enough to drink one tablet during or after meals for a month. The only insignificant drawback, some women consider the rather large size of the tablets.

3 Elevit Pronatal

Most appointed
Country: Germany
Average price: 1 800 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Most often, "Elevit Pronatal" is recommended for women in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. This is due to the fact that the drug has a high content of folic acid (800 mcg). The composition is also enriched with vitamins A, E, PP, B5, iron, phosphorus, biotin, zinc, etc. This complex contributes to the proper development of the fetus and reduces the likelihood of miscarriage. Available in 30 or 100 pieces (for a month or three).

Due to the optimal content of essential elements for early pregnancy, you do not need to take additional vitamin B9 or iron. Drinking "Elevit" should be one capsule once a day, which is very convenient. The advantages of the drug include a rich composition, a sufficient number of elements important for the 1st trimester, availability and excellent quality. Of the shortcomings, only the high price can be distinguished.

2 Femibion \u200b\u200bNatalcare I

The choice of specialists in gynecology and obstetrics
Country: Austria
Average price: 500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

Femibion \u200b\u200bNatalcare I was developed in an Austrian laboratory taking into account the needs of the female body in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This period is the most important stage for the initial formation of the fetus. The drug contains metafoline - a substance that replaces folic acid and is easily absorbed in the body. The composition is enriched with 9 useful vitamins and iodine.

"Femibion" softens the unpleasant manifestations of toxicosis and helps to transfer this period more easily. The recommended dosage is 1 tablet per day. The main advantage of the complex is the presence of many recommendations from experts. The advantages also include convenient use, excellent reviews of doctors, the highest quality, thoughtful composition, well-being of a woman in the early stages. No flaws were found.

1 One A Day Women 's Prenatal

Perfectly calibrated daily value formula
Country: USA
Average price: 1,500 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

The most important feature of the One A Day Women's Prenatal vitamin complex is that one serving of the tablet contains exactly 100% of the recommended daily dosage of nutrients important for a pregnant woman, with the exception of vitamin A, it is only 50%, but this is due to that all the fetus reacts to it in different ways.Gynecologists in the reviews note that the patients taking this complex felt the energy, which is so lacking in the very early stages of pregnancy.

The package, designed for a monthly course, contains 30 tablets that combine vitamins and minerals, and 30 gelatin capsules with omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA), which contribute to better fetal development in the 1st trimester of pregnancy, when the brain and eyes are formed. The manufacturer, of course, has not forgotten about folic acid, which reduces the risk of defectiveness in the development of the brain and spinal cord. Both tablets must be taken at the same time with meals.

The best vitamins for pregnant women in the second trimester

4 Doppelherz V.I.P.

Most bought
Country: Germany
Average price: 750 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.4

Iron, iodine, calcium, magnesium, zinc, omega 3, vitamins of groups A, E, C, D, B - all this fits in one capsule Doppelherz V.I.P. In the 2nd trimester, when the fetus is just beginning to harden the bones, a combination of calcium, zinc, vitamins D3 and C will be very useful.And since every second pregnant woman is diagnosed with iodine deficiency, which leads to a malfunction of the thyroid gland and leads to constant fatigue, the manufacturer used such a mineral as iodine.

Omega 3 prevents blood clots from forming in blood vessels and lowers cholesterol levels. Folic acid, in symbiosis with vitamin B12, synthesizes DNA cells and form hemoglobin. In the reviews, medical experts confirm that after a course of taking a vitamin complex from Doppelherz, analyzes of pregnant women show noticeable improvements. Also, hair loss and brittle nails stop, and a surge of strength is felt.

3 Minisan Mama Complex

High concentration of nutrients
Country: Finland
Average price: 1 050 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

“Minisan Mama Complex” has been number 1 in Finland for several years in a row, and recently this vitamin complex has enjoyed no less popularity in the CIS countries. It contains many B vitamins, including folic acid, without which no complex for pregnant women can do. Vitamin C will increase the resistance of the immune system, because expectant mothers are undesirable to get sick and drink antiviral drugs.

The manufacturer decided not to use vitamin A, since the body of the mother and especially the fetus is prone to overdoses. Some may be scared off by the price, but this is justified by the fact that the package contains 90 capsules, which is enough for the entire trimester. It is important to note that the complex is often prescribed by specialists to pregnant women with acute hypovitaminosis, because it contains a high concentration of vitamins, which can lead to an allergic reaction. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor.

2 Vitrum Prenatal Forte

Promotes proper fetal development
Country: USA
Average price: 1,700 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The vitamin and mineral complex "Vitrum Prenatal Forte" was created to fill the deficiency of useful elements during pregnancy. It has a universal effect and is suitable for use at any time, but experts recommend the drug in the second trimester. This is due to the high content of iodine, iron and magnesium, which are so necessary after 12 weeks.

The composition includes 8 minerals (calcium, manganese, etc.), 5 acids (for example, folic, biotin) and more than 7 vitamins. It helps to increase the resistance of a pregnant girl's body to infections, maintain an optimal hemoglobin level and normal fetal development. The advantages are: convenient dosage (1 capsule daily), rich composition, versatility. The disadvantages include: an unpleasant smell of pills, can cause nausea.

1 Femibion \u200b\u200bNatalcare II

The best vitamin complex for the 2nd trimester
Country: Austria
Average price: 1,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

The popular Austrian drug "Femibion \u200b\u200bNatalcare" has two forms of release, one of which is created specifically for the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. The composition includes a whole complex of trace elements necessary at this stage. Among them are folic acid, metafoline, iodine, various vitamins: B6 is responsible for protein metabolism, B12 for the formation of the nervous system, nicotinamide provides support in protecting the skin, etc. Consists of 30 tablets and 30 capsules to be taken one after another.

The main distinguishing feature of the drug is the thoughtful content of the most important components in the right amount. This ensures the healthy development of the fetus and keeps the woman comfortable. Experts point out the following advantages of the complex: suitable for the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy, convenient dosage, proper development of the child. The disadvantages include the high cost.

Best vitamins for pregnant women in the third trimester

3 Complivit Trimestrum 3

Improves overall well-being
Country Russia
Average price: 310 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Complivit Trimester 3 is often called one of the best vitamin complexes in the budget segment for the 3rd trimester. It has an important distinctive feature - a balanced composition, specially designed for a specific gestational age. The drug is enriched with selenium, lutein, vitamin B9, iron, iodine and other useful microelements. Available in packs of 30 coated tablets with a pleasant sweetish taste.

Reviews of the girls indicate a significant improvement in well-being after the start of taking Complivit. They notice a reduction in swelling, an improvement in the quality of hair, nails, skin, and relief of joint pain. The recommended dosage is 1 time per day after meals. Among the advantages are excellent composition, good reviews from doctors and buyers, optimal cost, improved well-being. No flaws were found.

2 Alphabet Mom's Health

Excellent value for money and quality
Country Russia
Average price: 350 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The complex of vitamins "Alphabet Mom's Health" has proven itself well when taken in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Girls notice that they endure this period easier. The main distinguishing feature of the drug is the separation of microelements into tablets, each of which has its own color for convenience. White contains biotin, calcium, phosphorus and 5 vitamins, blue contains various beneficial antioxidants, and yellow contains iron, folic acid, etc.

The developers took into account the compatibility of the components, so they divided them into different techniques. "Alphabet" does not cause allergic reactions. The advantages of the vitamin and mineral complex include positive reviews from doctors and customers, a high content of nutrients, and a unique formula. The only drawback is the inconvenient use (three tablets a day).

1 Astrum Mammi Complex

Rich composition. Quality components
Country: USA
Average price: 2,000 rubles.
Rating (2019): 5.0

Mammy Complex. Waiting for a baby "from the American Astrum brand was developed taking into account all the characteristics of the body of a pregnant woman in the 3rd trimester, preparing for childbirth and further for breastfeeding. Vitamin B10 (PABA), which is rarely found in complexes, is involved in activating the body's production of natural folic acid, which helps to avoid the development of congenital malformations in the fetus.

The source of vitamin A is beta-carotene, which is synthesized when it enters the body through complex reactions. It is absolutely safe and non-toxic even in the highest doses, which retinol cannot boast of in its pure form. The presence of such a component as L-carnitine, which has become famous as the best source of energy and endurance, will be surprising. Especially often doctors prescribe these vitamins to pregnant women with heart problems, since taurine is present in the composition, which has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system.

Best monovitamins for pregnant women

4 Pyridoxine

The best relief from toxicosis
Country Russia
Average price: 65 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.2

Vitamin B6, vital in metabolic processes, became famous among pregnant women for its ability to block vomiting during the period of toxicosis, which usually begins in the early stages. Pyridoxine is involved in the development of the fetal nervous system and reduces congenital heart anomalies. Also, experts have confirmed the benefits of vitamin B6 in the 2nd trimester, when the rudiments of permanent teeth are laid in the child, affecting their correct formation.

Studies have shown that in addition to the active elimination of toxins in the 1st trimester, women with a diet enriched with vitamin B6, after childbirth, have an average of 1.2 times more milk. This vitamin can also help reduce the risk of premature birth. Curiously, pyridoxine deficiency leads to depression, especially postpartum depression. The daily norm of vitamin B6 is 2.1 mg.

3 Cyanocobalamin

Adjusts the metabolism of lipids and proteins
Country: USA
Average price: 600 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.6

Cyanocobalamin is one of the most commonly prescribed vitamins in combination with folic acid, as this tandem helps each other to be absorbed. Equally important, their symbiosis generates methionine amino acids, tuning lipid and protein metabolism. Doctors observe a frequent pattern: with a deficiency of vitamin B12, children are more prone to diabetes, therefore, if there is such a heredity, it is very important to monitor sufficient intake of cyanocobalamin.

Also, experts in the field of obstetrics say that B12 will help to avoid the appearance of diseases of the nervous system and problems with the gastric tract. In addition, cyanocobalamin is involved in DNA synthesis, as well as in the renewal of blood cells. With adequate intake of vitamin B12, the intensity of stretch marks can be reduced as the skin condition improves. For pregnant women, the daily intake of cyanocobalamin is 2.8 μg.

2 Folic acid

Helps avoid the development of congenital malformations in the fetus
Country Russia
Average price: 35 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.8

"Folic acid" or vitamin B9 is one of the most important elements in early pregnancy. It has a direct impact on the formation of the vital internal organs of the fetus, its neural tube. The use of this substance in an insufficient amount can lead to detachment of the placenta, the threat of miscarriage and other unpleasant consequences. Experts prescribe the drug to absolutely all women in the 1st trimester.

Taking "Folic acid" promotes a calm and correct course of pregnancy. The manufacturer "Zdravcity" produces packs of 30 tablets, which should be taken one at a time. The advantages of the drug are proven effectiveness, low price, excellent reviews of doctors, availability, positive impact on the condition of women. Cons: requires additional intake of other vitamins.

1 Tocopherol

Important for early fetal formation. Improves the quality of the epidermis
Country Russia
Average price: 30 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Vitamin E, or as it is also called tocopherol, is extremely necessary for both the woman and the child. In the early stages, vitamin E is involved in the formation of a high-quality placenta. It is also the main supplier of oxygen to developing cells. The optimal period for use is 1 trimester. It is inappropriate to drink tocopherol in the 3rd trimester, since under its influence muscle tissues become toned, which can cause premature contractions.

A sufficient content of tocopherol in the body will protect the fetus from the influence of the external environment, for example, from the dirty air inhaled by the mother. In the reviews of pregnant women, as one of the best qualities of vitamin E, there is a decrease in the intensity of stretch marks, since the active production of elastin is provoked, which is responsible for the quality of the epidermis, its elasticity and firmness. Tocopherol is prescribed only by doctors, since it is one of the most active and powerful vitamins, its overdose can have a negative effect.