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Supplements During Pregnancy

Are They Really Needed?

Part One

By Allison Gamble, Nutritionist

Vitamin B6 is important in amino acid metabolism and protein synthesis. There is also a possibility that B6 helps reduce severe nausea and vomiting. Studies have shown a reduction in those symptoms when women were given B6 supplements. Sources are liver, meats, cabbage, bananas, eggs, corn, whole wheat, fish and rolled oats.

Vitamin D helps maintain calcium balance. Vitamins A, C, E and K help preserve structural and functional properties of cells. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.

Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, berries, and green vegetables. On a side note about vitamin A, many women are concerned with the possibility of birth defects from consuming high levels of vitamin A. The form of vitamin A found in foods - beta-carotene - will not cause toxicity. The form of vitamin A you want to watch levels of is retinol. The drug containing retinol taken orally to fight acne was found to produce birth defects. Those women were taking 25,000 IU per day. FYI: 100 percent of the daily value is 5,000 IU. Researchers recommend women trying to get pregnant should not take more than 8,000 IU per day of retinol. Supplements with preformed vitamin A should also be avoided during the first trimester, unless you are found to be deficient.