Women who are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant need to understand the importance of taking supplements.

Keep in mind, though, that diet is also very important and vitamins do not work by themselves.

Below are the essential vitamins babies, mothers, and seniors all need.

Prenatal Multi Vitamins

Folic Acid

Folic acid can decrease the chance of neural tube birth defects that occur in the brain and spinal cord.

A baby with spina bifida, the most pervasive neural tube defect, is born with a spine that is unconnected.

This condition causes exposed and damaged nerves, leaving the child with a certain degree of paralysis, unrestraint and possible mental retardation.

Since neural tube defects occur in the first 28 days after conception, studies have proven that taking larger doses (up to 4,000 mcg) at least a month ahead and during the first trimester may produce outcomes that are more favorable.

Vitamin B 12

Vitamin B12 is also helpful in providing strong healthy blood cells and increased stamina for the mom. A mom may notice an energetic baby too, one that kicks and moves a lot.

Calcium consumption may prevent a mother from losing bone density, since the fetus also uses this mineral for its own bone growth.

Not taking enough calcium leaves the baby with no other option but to steal the mineral from its mother′s bones, which in turn decreases bone mass and places the expecting mom at risk for osteoporosis.

Calcium also enables the blood to clot normally, aids in muscle and nervous system function and helps the heart to maintain proper function. Vitamin D is important for proper calcium absorption.

Iron

Iron provides an oxygen supply for both the mother′s and baby′s blood and helps prevent anemia. However, note that the body′s need for iron increases significantly during pregnancy, making extra supplementation important.

Iron is a multifaceted mineral; it makes up a crucial part of hemoglobin, helps muscles function properly and increases the body′s susceptibility to disease and stress.

As an added bonus, it also helps with symptoms such as depression, irritability, weakness and weariness.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are greatly needed by pregnant women, but are not manufactured naturally by the body. In fact, omega-3 fatty acids must be obtained from food intake or from supplements.

To that end, it is found in fatty fish such as halibut, salmon, tuna and other marine life such as algae and krill (shrimplike crustaceans).

Since it has recommended that pregnant women stay clear of fish with high levels of mercury and PCB, taking a high quality, purified fish oil supplement may be the way to go.

Much research confirms that taking fish oil supports a baby′s proper brain development, communication skills and eye development.

After Baby's Birth

Vitamin D consumption while breastfeeding is recommended because it supports infants′ bone development and immune systems.

Although rare, rickets (soft and brittle bones) may result from vitamin D deficiency.

Other important nutrients for new moms include calcium, omega 3′s and probiotics are known to help shore up your immune system include apples, chicken, ginger, onions, sweet potatoes and yogurt.

Over 55?

You guessed it. With the exception of iron, seniors should be taking a high quality multi vitamin - made with all natural ingredients, Omega 3 and Vitamin D all help with the aging process.

The bones need the calcium for strength.

The Vitamin D helps with heart function and lubricates the joints while keeping the tissue pliable.

Omega 3 is excellent for brain function, as wells as lowering cholesterol. Therefore, as we age, we need the same supplements we did when we were younger, go figure.

As with any vitamin or supplement, please consult your doctor before taking. Author Beverly Terhune speaks from 35 years of living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and shares her experience, strength & hope on how to lead a healthy, substance-free life.

VitaminBaron.com 'Take Your Vitamins' Natural Products - Wholesale Prices - Fast Delivery Visit us at: www.vitaminbaron.com Phone: 602-942-0118 Fax: 602-863-9020