March 28, 2017

The importance of folic acid and the role it plays in pregnancy have been understood for many years. But in recent years, scientific research has expanded our understanding of nutritional needs in pregnancy. Now health care providers and pregnancy advocacy organizations have begun to focus research on another nutrient important before, during and after pregnancy: omega-3 fatty acid, called docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). A daily prenatal vitamin that contains both folic acid and DHA is an easy way to meet nutrient recommendations.

The Role of Folic Acid and DHA in Pregnancy

Folic acid, which is a form of folate, plays a key role in supporting the development of a baby’s brain and closure of the neural tube — a precursor to the central nervous system.^1,2 The neural tube eventually becomes the baby’s spine. The development and closure of the neural tube occurs between day 14 and 28 of pregnancy.³

DHA play several important roles in a healthy pregnancy. Increased DHA levels are associated with longer gestation, higher birth weight and a decreased risk of pre-term birth.^4,5 Earlier in a woman’s pregnancy in the first trimester, DHA supports her baby’s brain development.⁶ Benefits associated with DHA continue postpartum, aiding in a newborn’s cognitive and visual development, as well as the development of motor skills and sleep patterns.^7-9

Prenatal Vitamins with Folic Acid & DHA

Taking prenatal vitamins one month before conception can help a woman build reserves of folic acid, DHA and other important nutrients. Many manufacturers offer a traditional prenatal vitamins, plus a second pill or tablet that contains DHA. But the Prenate^® Vitamin Family’s line of prenatal vitamins offers four products with folic acid and DHA in a single dose, taken once daily.

Every Prenate^® product meets or exceeds recommendations from the CDC for daily consumption of folic acid. Each contains 1 mg folate as a blend of bioavailable L-methylfolate and traditional folic acid. In addition, each contains a significant amount of marine-based DHA to help meet daily nutritional goals. Designed for the needs of both mothers and babies, the Prenate^® Vitamin Family helps fill nutritional gaps. Talk to your doctor to see which prenatal vitamin with folic acid is right for you.