Supplements during pregnancy

[Anonymous]

What supplements are people taking in addition to the pre-natal vitamin? The prenatals don't have 100% of the daily value of most vitamins, so I'm thinking to take calcium as a supplement. I was told probiotics are good (and supposedly help the baby have less allergies later on). I was thinking about iron, but unless you're anemic, it's probably not necessary b/c it constipates.

I heard through a friend's naturopath that iron supposedly acts as a pro-oxidant (the opposite of an anti-oxidant) and hence shouldn't be taken in excess. She also said that it is actually a big myth that we need a lot of Calcium for bone health – and supposedly it is more important to get vit. D, Magnesium, plenty of exercise and adequate protein for bone support. Curious to hear what peoples' thoughts are on this.

[Anonymous]

I've been taking a DHA supplement in my last trimester, and plan to continue if I breastfeed.

I've read it can help vision, and DH and I both have HORRIBLE eyesight, so figure it can't hurt.

[Anonymous]

If your prenatal vitamin does not contain calcium, then it probably already contains iron. Calcium can block the absorbtion of iron, so that is why some multi-vitamins do not contain calcium. I take my prenatal vitamin in the a.m. with breakfast and save calcium rich foods -- yogurt (Wegman's super yogurt with probiotics), milk, cheese -- for later in the day. I've noticed more muscle soreness recently, so am considering taking a calcium supplement (with Vitamin D) at dinner.

[Anonymous]

I take high quality fish oil, with my OB's consent. It cuts down on swelling and there is some evidence that it is good for brain development. I would check with your OB first, of course.

[Anonymous]

I took folic acid pills after I ran out of pre natals.

[Anonymous]

I would take a high quality prenatal with DHA, add some good natural calcium from yogurt, milk, cheese, etc., and call it a day. Try to eat a healty diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, some red meat and you should be fine. I would be wary of taking extra supplements as many are not regulated by the FDA and really aren't necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Remember that the baby will take from you what s/he needs.