Vitamins

The UK Department of Health recommends women planning a baby should take a supplement containing 400µg of folic acid from the start of trying to conceive until the 12th week of pregnancy. Supplemental folic acid intake increases maternal folate status†. Low maternal folate status is a risk factor in the development of neural tube defects in the developing foetus. Folic acid is also beneficial beyond 12 weeks as it contributes to maternal tissue growth during pregnancy.

It’s also recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding mothers take a daily vitamin D supplement of 10 micrograms (mcg) / 400 units (IU). Our Pregnacare prenatal vitamins, such as Pregnacare Original, contain the recommended levels of folic acid and vitamin D, as well as a range of other beneficial nutrients.

†The beneficial effect is obtained with a supplemental folic acid daily intake of 400µg for at least one month before and up to three months after conception.

The amount of time it takes to feel a benefit from taking vitamins will depend on the individual. Each person's body is unique, and factors such as metabolism, overall health, and existing nutrient levels can influence how quickly vitamins are absorbed and their effects are felt. Typically, water soluble vitamins, such as vitamin B, are absorbed more quickly by the body, and their effects may be noticeable sooner than fat-soluble vitamins. Fat soluble vitamins are absorbed with dietary fats and are stored in the body's fat tissues. It may take longer for the effects of fat-soluble vitamins to become apparent compared to water-soluble vitamins.

Vitamins, along with minerals, are micronutrients that our bodies need in small amounts to work optimally. There are two main groups of vitamins: water soluble vitamins, such as vitamin C, and fat soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin E and vitamin K.

Vitamins are important because our bodies require these micronutrients to work optimally and maintain health. Different vitamins bring different benefits, from vitamin D which contributes to normal immune function, to vitamin B12, which contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

The body requires a range of different vitamins to maintain health. Certain vitamins work together to support biological processes, such as folic acid and vitamin B12, which both contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Multivitamins, which contain a range of different vitamins and minerals, can be a convenient way to round out any gaps in your diet.