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Supplements During Pregnancy

Are They Really Needed?

Part One

By Allison Gamble, Nutritionist

Many moms-to-be wonder if multivitamin and mineral supplements are really necessary during pregnancy, so for this article, I set out to answer that question. For years I have lectured my family and friends about the reasons why supplements should not be a replacement for nutrients from food. I also felt the same way about pregnancy, if not stronger. I have always believed pregnancy is the time to be on your best behavior. I knew that if women were eating a variety of foods, not skipping meals and were exercising, they probably wouldn't need supplements. But then I started to think about the women who haven't planned for their pregnancies, and the women who are nauseated all the time, and the women who only tolerate turkey sandwiches and potato chips. Their nutritional status might rightfully need a boost. So I did a little investigating and am ready to share what I found out. Since it's easy to lose track of all the specific roles of vitamins and minerals, I thought I would briefly review some of their many functions. I will start with vitamins.

Thiamin, riboflavin and niacin are essential to help your body produce energy from the food you eat. Foods high in these vitamins are whole grains, legumes, organ meats and pork.

Folic acid is involved in almost all aspects of DNA and RNA synthesis. If folic acid is lacking, cell division cannot proceed normally. Folic acid's role in preventing neural tube defects is a well known benefit. Vitamin B12 also plays a role in cell division and interacts with folic acid. Leafy green vegetables, liver, yeast, legumes, nuts, and whole grains are good sources of folic acid. B12 is available in all forms of animal origin.