When you're pregnant, it's important to ensure that you receive adequate amounts of certain vitamins and minerals to support both your health and the development of your baby. Here are some key vitamins considered safe and recommended during pregnancy:

1. Folic Acid: It's recommended to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily from before conception until 12 weeks of pregnancy. Folic acid helps prevent neural tube defects in the developing baby¹².

2. Vitamin D: A supplement of 10 micrograms (400 IU) of vitamin D daily is recommended to support bone health and immune function³.

3. Iron: Iron supports the increased blood volume needed during pregnancy and helps prevent anemia⁴.

4. Calcium: Essential for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Pregnant women need 1,000 mg of calcium daily⁴.

5. Iodine: Important for the baby’s brain development, recommended intake is around 220 micrograms per day during pregnancy⁵.

It's important to avoid excessive doses and certain vitamins, such as:

• Vitamin A (Retinol): High doses can be harmful and are associated with birth defects³.

Other vitamins and minerals may also be recommended based on individual needs, so it's best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance on supplementation.

Footnotes

1. NHS - Vitamins and supplements in pregnancy ↩

2. NCBI - Nutrition and Supplements during Pregnancy ↩

3. NHS - Vitamins, minerals and supplements in pregnancy ↩ ↩²

4. NCBI - Vitamin Supplementation in Pre-Pregnancy and Pregnancy ↩ ↩²

5. NCBI - Safety and efficacy of supplements in pregnancy ↩