The Benefits of Prenatal Vitamins If You Are Not Pregnant

A prenatal vitamin can be an alternative to a multivitamin. Even if you aren't pregnant, there are benefits that a prenatal vitamin provide that a standard vitamin lacks.

Folic acid

Prenatal vitamins have an increased amount of folic acid. Folic acid in moderation has shown to reduce heart disease, and it also assists in the production of serotonin in the brain, decreasing the risk for depression.

Iron and Anemia

When someone is anemic, the iron level in their blood is low. A prenatal vitamin contains more iron than the normal multivitamin and benefits those with low iron.

Hair and Nail Growth

According to the Centers for Disease Control, folic acid helps generate new cells in our body. The areas of our body that generate new cells include our hair and nails. Daily consumption of folic acid assists in that growth.

Planning Pregnancy

It is beneficial to start prenatal vitamins prior to pregnancy in order to reduce chances of miscarriage and birth defects. Key in prenatal vitamins, folic acid aids in the prevention of birth defects in the brain and spine, such as anencephaly and spinal bifida.

No Harm, No Foul

According to Joanne Larson, a registered and licensed dietitian, the consumption of prenatal vitamins, even while not pregnant, will not harm your body.

References

• Your Total Health; Using Prenatal Vitamins
• Ask the Dietitian about Prenatal Vitamins
• CDC Prenatal Vitamins Guide