Prenatal vitamins are designed for women who need larger levels of vitamins and minerals including folic acid and iron to keep both moms and babies healthy. These vitamins are highly recommended for women who are trying to conceive. Taking these vitamins can curtail many problems that may develop in the early stages of pregnancy. That said, because there are very few side effects of prenatal vitamins if you’re pregnant or looking to become pregnant. There are women taking prenatal vitamins for other reasons not associated with pregnancy but instead for cosmetic purposes.
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Can Prenatal Vitamins Develop stronger hair and nails?
There really is no scientific proof that taking prenatal vitamins will help your hair and nails grow longer and stronger. Although some women have claimed their hair is thicker and shinier, their nails are stronger and longer during pregnancy. Even though they are taking prenatal vitamins, the truth of the matter is their increased levels of estrogen and their harmonic changes during the pregnancy. In some cases, women have noticed their loss of hair virtually stops but once they give birth, their hair will start shedding again until it goes back to its normal state.
Can I Take Prenatal Vitamins If You Are Not Planning A Pregnancy?
Prenatal vitamins contain many nutrients such as folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin C, zinc, vitamin B6, vitamin D and Copper. The levels are higher than your average multivitamin because pregnant women need added iron and folic acid to prevent anemia in themselves and their babies. For women who are not pregnant or planning a pregnancy, there are some risks in taking these vitamins. Too much iron can cause digestive issues, constipation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. In very rare cases, you could die from too much iron in your system. Some rare cases of folic acid overload can hide symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiencies. This could lead to depression, dementia, memory loss and other issues if not treated quickly. Check out this page for more information. However prenatal vitamins such as the ones made by Spring Valley Vitamins
are very low risk.
Better Alternatives For Hair and Nails:
Increase your vitamin B levels (including biotin), calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and some iron. Include dairy products into your diet such as cheese, Greek yogurt and eggs. Seafood, lean meat, fruits, whole wheat breads, vegetables and a good daily multivitamin are much better choices for healthier hair and nails.
If you are suffering from weak nails and poor hair quality, talk to you doctor to see if you have a certain deficiency going on. Also, before starting any new supplement or vitamin intake, speak with your doctor first. This is good advice whether you are pregnant or not.
Prenatal and Pregnant Advice:
If you are planning for a pregnancy or are pregnant, always discuss prenatal vitamins and supplements with your doctor before starting a regimen. He or she will be able to go over your health, your diet and if added vitamin supplements are for you or not. You want a safe and healthy baby so the first step is keeping your doctor in the loop.