Almost everyone knows that it is important to take prenatal vitamins while expecting; however, many women do not realize how vital it is to begin taking prenatal vitamins before conception. During the first 10 weeks of pregnancy, your baby's organs are forming. For this reason, it is essential that as soon as a woman begins thinking about having a baby, she begins to take prenatal vitamins.

Prenatal vitamins are similar to multivitamins; however, they contain large doses of certain vitamins and minerals. Prenatal vitamins contain larger amounts offolic acid, calcium and iron. Each of these nutrients is necessary for proper development. Getting proper nutrients is essential for expectant moms. Those who are expecting or trying to get pregnant should begin a daily regimen of prenatal vitamins. There are many places to find cheap supplements; however, an expectant mother needs to ensure the prenatal supplements they purchase are made with top quality ingredients and manufactured using the strictest protocols. Vita Living provides prenatal supplements that are both affordable and made using premium ingredients.

Calcium is especially important during the last trimester of pregnancy. During the last trimester, a baby's bones are growing rapidly and becoming stronger. If a woman does not receive ample amounts of calcium, the baby's bones will not develop properly and can be weak. Therefore, it is essential that a pregnant woman gets at least 1,000 milligrams of calcium daily. A prenatal vitamin that contains calcium will help ensure the mother and baby receives the calcium they both need. In addition to taking a prenatal supplement, expectant moms should eat a well-balanced diet rich in calcium. Foods that are rich in calcium include dairy products, such as milk, yogurt and cheeses, spinach and fortified cereals and fruit juices.

The mineral, iron, is needed for the body to produce hemoglobin. The body needs hemoglobin to transport oxygen throughout the body. Additionally, iron is essential to fetal growth and development of the bone structure. If an expectant mom doesn't receive ample iron, anemia and low-birth weight can occur. Eating red meat, legumes, eggs and leafy green vegetables, such as spinach will help supply an expectant mother with the iron she needs for health and the health of her baby. During pregnancy, a woman's recommended iron intake doubles to 27 milligrams daily. To help ensure enough iron is consumed, obstetricians often prescribe a prenatal vitamin.