The Essentials can serve as an excellent prenatal multivitamin. Proper amounts of folic acid, zinc, and other important vitamins and minerals are all present in this product.
It is important for women who are planning to become pregnant (and those who are currently pregnant) to consume at least 400 mcg of folic acid per day. A full daily dosage of the Essentials provides 1,000 mcg of folic acid. If a mother does not have adequate intake of folic acid within the first few months of pregnancy, the fetus may develop neural tube defects (such as spina bifida). Studies show that taking at least 400 mcg of folic acid can reduce the risk of these birth defects by as much as 70%.
It is important for every expectant mother to ask a doctor about taking an iron supplement, as iron is not included in the Essentials. During pregnancy, women should generally supplement with somewhere between 28 and 90 mg of elemental iron per day, depending on their needs.
Research has also shown that essential fatty acids are critical for developing babies. It may be a good idea to supplement with BiOmega during pregnancy. Before taking any additional or different supplements, discuss them fully with your doctor, as it is important to protect the growing baby and mother.
READ VERY CAREFULLY - The following products, taken as directed, are strongly recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating:
* Essentials
* Active Calcium
* BiOmega
The following products, taken as directed, are generally recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating, based on individual needs:
* USANA Foods (Nutrimeal, Nutrition Bar, Fibergy)
The following products, taken as directed, are recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating ONLY on the advice of a physician:
* HealthPak
* Proflavanol & Proflavanol 90
* E-Prime
* Poly C
* Ginkgo-PS
* Visionex
The following products are NOT generally for use by pregnant or lactating women:
* CoQuinone 30
* Hepasil DTX
* Procosa II
* PhytoEstrin
* Palmetto Plus