HEALTHIER YOU: Finding the right vitamin balance for mom and baby

BY DR. MARGUERITE BRATHWAITE OB-GYN

For expectant mothers, proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting healthy fetal development. During pregnancy, the body requires a steady intake of essential vitamins and minerals to support both maternal health and the growing baby. While prenatal vitamins are commonly recommended, it can be tempting to add additional supplements in hopes of “doing more” for health. However, more is not always better. 

Vitamin overdose — also known as hypervitaminosis — can occur when an individual consumes more than the recommended daily amount of a vitamin. This often happens when multiple supplements are taken together, such as combining a prenatal multivitamin with separate individual vitamin products. 

Even vitamins that are essential in pregnancy can become harmful when taken in excessive amounts. 

Although any vitamin can become toxic at high levels, calcium and iron present some of the greatest risks when overconsumed during pregnancy. For this reason, it is important that expectant mothers only take supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider. A prenatal vitamin is often sufficient on its own, unless otherwise directed by a doctor. 

Recognizing the signs of possible vitamin overdose is also important. Symptoms may include cloudy urine, frequent urination, constipation or diarrhea, loss of appetite, stomach pain, muscle weakness, yellow-orange tint to the skin, sensitivity to sunlight, headaches, fatigue, and in more severe cases, rapid or irregular heartbeat and cracked lips. If any of these symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought promptly. 

Every pregnancy is unique, and nutritional needs can vary from person to person. This is why consultation with a healthcare provider before adding any supplements is essential. A balanced, medically guided approach helps ensure both mother and baby receive the nutrients they need—without unnecessary risk. 

Women’s Innovative Care is committed to supporting healthy pregnancies and identifying potential complications as early as possible. Through compassionate care and advanced screening services, the team works closely with mothers-to-be to promote the best possible outcomes. For questions or concerns about pregnancy care, call (702) 413-7740 or visit 851 South Rampart Blvd., Suite 160, Las Vegas, NV.