Conception and pregnancy are periods when it is essential to optimize health and nutrition, both for mother and baby. Research has shown that healthy pregnancies begin with good nutrition during preconception, and it is known that overall nutrition needs rise during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Prenatal Complete with DHA is a comprehensive, hypoallergenic, prenatal multivitamin and mineral blend to support healthy metabolism during pregnancy. The formula includes folate as Quatrefolic™ - 100% 5-MTHF, the biologically active form of folic acid, to meet increased requirements for fetal nervous system development. It also includes USP B vitamins. Albion® TRAACS® chelated mineral complexes and Ferrochel® iron are included for enhanced mineral bioavailability and gentleness on the stomach. Suggested Use: 3 capsules and 1 soft gel per day or as recommended by your health care professional. Bioavailability Nutrients must be highly bioavailable to improve the body’s nutrient balance. Unlike other formulas, which use cheap forms of minerals with slow and limited absorption, and can often cause intestinal distress such as constipation (calcium carbonate) or diarrhea (magnesium oxide), Prenatal Complete with DHA provides a full spectrum of highly-absorbed, Albion® mineral chelates. Albion® is the world leader in manufacturing highly bioavailable mineral chelates, a specialized form of minerals bound to amino acids. This patented process creates natural mineral compounds that use active absorption mechanisms in the gastrointestinal tract to greatly enhance mineral absorption. Folate Folate is needed very early in pregnancy and it is recommended that women take folate when planning to become pregnant, since folate needs are high around the time of conception. DHA Intake of omega-3 fatty acids is critically important during pregnancy for the development of the fetal brain and retina. Iron Since iron is critical for energy and oxygen delivery to a developing baby, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends routine iron supplementation during pregnancy, though many forms of iron cause constipation and gastrointestinal discomfort. Ferrochel® iron has been shown to help increase and maintain levels of iron, while being gentle on the stomach and colon. Iodine It has long been recommended that pregnant and lactating women take a prenatal supplement containing iodine for optimal thyroid health. However, only 15 – 20% of pregnant and nursing women currently take supplements containing iodine. A recent report from the American Academy of Pediatrics highlights the vital role that iodine plays in the development of a baby’s nervous system and brain development. New recommendations reflect this finding, stating that pregnant and lactating women should take a supplement containing iodide, a form more easily absorbed by the body.
