Pregnancy Prep
Which supplements belong in pregnancy planning? A guide to folic acid, regional guidance, and label checks.
Why start before pregnancy?
Folic acid taken before and in early pregnancy reduces the chance of neural tube defects, problems affecting the developing brain or spine. UK NHS guidance recommends 400 micrograms daily when trying to conceive, ideally starting three months before, through the first 12 weeks. 1
When is individual advice important?
Previous pregnancies affected by a neural tube defect, diabetes, and some medicines can change folic acid requirements. NHS guidance recommends clinician-prescribed higher doses for specified risk groups. 1
What should the label leave out?
NHS guidance advises against cod liver oil and supplements containing retinol during pregnancy because excess vitamin A can harm development. 1
Nutrients with the strongest ratings
Sorted by the largest rated effect. Bars show effect size, the letter is the evidence grade.
All 18 ratingsEvery nutrient rated for pregnancy prep, with search
What does the evidence cover?
This section covers the specific uses below; other supplements are not reviewed.
Folic acidSupportedThe established purpose is reducing neural tube defect risk. German consumer guidance also recommends a 400 microgram daily supplement in pregnancy. 1 2
Questions people ask
Is food enough for folic acid?
The NHS recommends a supplement because the needed amount is difficult to obtain from food alone. 1
Does everyone need a high dose?
Higher doses are reserved for specified risk groups and prescribed by a clinician under NHS guidance. 1
Are German recommendations identical?
German guidance also includes iodine supplementation during pregnancy; regional recommendations should be read in their own context. 2
Is cod liver oil suitable?
The NHS advises against it during pregnancy because of its vitamin A content. 1
Sources
- Mehr drin als nötig: Nahrungsergänzung rund um Schwangerschaft und Stillzeit Verbraucherzentrale NRW