What is the Purpose of Post-Natal Multivitamins & Supplements?
Lindsay Knake
| 3 min read
Lindsay Knake is a brand journalist for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
New mothers have likely heard of prenatal vitamins, which are designed to help mothers-to-be get the vitamins and minerals they need through pregnancy.
But what about postnatal vitamins? This type of vitamin can help support women in their postpartum recovery period and through breastfeeding.
While it’s best to get vitamins and minerals through a nutritious diet, dietary restrictions and busy lives don’t always make that possible. Postnatal vitamins can help provide minerals and vitamins important for the mother and infant and can help the mother stay strong and healthy so she can provide nutrients to her baby through breastfeeding.
Eating a healthy diet after giving birth can help give you the vitamins and minerals you need, but certain levels important to both mom and baby may be lower than normal. The following vitamins and minerals are often lower after birth and can be supported by taking an appropriate multivitamin or supplement:
Iron
Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, a protein in the red blood cells to deliver oxygen throughout your body. During pregnancy, women experience an increased blood volume and need more iron, according to the Mayo Clinic. A lack of iron leads to anemia, the symptoms of which include:
- Fatigue
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Craving ice
- Headache
Infants, who receive the mineral through breastfeeding or formula, also need iron for healthy development.
You can increase iron in your diet by adding green leafy vegetables, some beans, animal products, and tofu.
Vitamin B12
B12 is an important vitamin for red blood cell development and energy production for both new mothers and infants. Mothers provide B12 to their infants through breastmilk, and they may need to supplement because of the energy demand on their bodies. The vitamin is found in animal products, so vegetarians also may need to consider a supplement if they can’t get enough through their diet.
DHA
This omega-3 fatty acid helps breastfed infants with vision, nervous system, and brain development. The amount of DHA, docosahexaenoic acid, in a mother’s breastmilk depends on their intake levels. It’s available through animal sources such as fish, which means some people may struggle to get enough in their diet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends limiting fish during pregnancy so post-partum levels may be low and need to be supplemented.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D supports the immune and nervous systems and bone health. You get the vitamin through diet and exposure to sunlight, although it depends on where you live and your skin color. Vitamin D deficiency is common for new mothers and may lead to an increased risk of postpartum depression, according to a study.
Choline
Pregnant and breastfeeding women need more of this macronutrient, which is essential for the infant’s growth and development, according to the CDC. Like in other high-demand nutrients, woman may not get enough in their diet during their postpartum period, according to a study.
While choline is mostly found in animal products, it is also available in beans and lentils.
When looking for a suitable postnatal vitamin, take care. Vitamins and supplements in the United States are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and manufacturers can sell the products without proving their safety and efficacy. The labels and claims of the vitamins and supplements may not be accurate or true. To find safe and effectives vitamins, look for products approved by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP) or NSF International.
If you are interested in a supplement or feel you need to take one, talk to your physician or obstetrician about trustworthy and effective options.
Image: Getty Images
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