Supplements for 2nd trimester

[SonaSharma]

Hello all, I’m 16 weeks pregnant now and as it’s my first pregnancy I’m not sure whether I should just go for Iron, Protein, Calcium supplements or wait for my midwife to suggest.

My midwife hasn’t really advised me to start any supplements as she says all reports are okay but conscious that as the baby grows the nutrients intake will increase as I may not be able to cater all that through my daily diet.

Any suggestions or experiences will be highly appreciated?

Thanks in advance

[Twiglet2]

Hi, yeah defo take some vitimins you should be on supplements from the minute you find out you are pregnant as the baby actually does the most developing early on folic acid, vitimin D and you should defo start increasing your iron now. Pregnacare and the likes have it all in one tablet but the nhs should have some to give you for free at this stage. I also had to take extra iron (also given to me by the midwives at your stage) and they should monitor your iron levels as your pregnancy progresses xx

[Jogsandwalks]

Folic acid + vit d from Boots boots.com/boots-folic-acid-.... That's all you need, well thats all I took in the end. Iron gave me terrible indigestion and loose dark coloured stools, I would stay well clear of iron supplements.

[SuperMum411]

I’m using pregnacare as they are good. I won’t just use folic acid. These have vitamins in. They come in three stages, I believe.

[SonaSharma]

Thanks everyone, very helpful! I’m also taking Pregnacare since start of pregnancy.

But wanted to know anyone taking any Calcium supplements during pregnancy? If yes can you specify which one.

[Seb9 in reply to SonaSharma]

Unless you're diet is really restricted you shouldn't need to take a calcium supplement and I wouldn't take one without talking to your midwife or doctor about whether you need it as taking too much calcium can be quite bad for you. Too much calcium may cause kidney stones and prevent your body from absorbing zinc and iron, which you need to start healthy too, so I wouldn't take it unless you're advised to.Your body slows down digestion during pregnancy so more calcium is absorbed from the foods you eat, so you normally just need to make sure you're eating a good range of foods and you'll have all the calcium you and baby need.

[SonaSharma]

Hello beauties,

Any suggestions for best calcium tablets or calcium brand name to start in the 2nd trimester?

I explored many but most of the calcium tablets comes with either vitamin D or Magnesium for better absorption. I’m already taking “Pregnacare original” since start of my pregnancy which contains everything but the only nutrient it lacks in is the calcium so need some good calcium supplement suggestions for 2nd trimester.

Thanks in advance!