Retailers understand the crucial importance of prenatal multivitamins for both mom and baby, due to the fact that most pregnant women do not meet their increased nutritional needs through diet alone. Most also know the importance of the ingredients such as folate/folic acid, iron, vitamin A, and higher levels of B vitamins that prenatal multivitamins provide.

But they may not be aware of three other important but often-overlooked ingredients to look for in a prenatal multivitamin. In my naturopathic practice I often personally recommend these nutrients. By stocking prenatal multivitamins that contain these three ingredients, they can cater to the unique needs of their pregnant customers with products that offer more comprehensive nutritional support during conception, pregnancy, and lactation.

Potassium

Pregnant women can be at risk for low levels of this essential mineral and electrolyte that is crucial for the heart, lungs, muscles, nerves, kidneys, digestive system, and also helps regulate insulin levels during pregnancy. The marked increase in blood volume and body fluids that occurs during pregnancy means an increased need for potassium. Most prenatal multivitamins contain very little to no potassium, but choosing to stock ones that do is a wise choice for retailers.

Choline

Pregnant women are at a higher risk of being deficient in this water-soluble nutrient, which plays important roles in brain and nervous system development. Choline was recognized as an essential nutrient only recently (1998). One of the most exciting areas of choline research is its role in fetal and early childhood development, particularly cognitive development. Prenatal vitamin formulations that are based on the latest science are beginning to include this essential nutrient, and retailers should look for such science-based formulas.

Vitamin D

Although most prenatal vitamins provide some vitamin D, many may not provide enough. Because evidence continues to grow indicating that the current recommendations of 200-600 IU daily may not be adequate for optimum maternal and infant health I, and many other health practitioners, recommend choosing a daily prenatal vitamin that contains at least 800 IU vitamin D3. Retailers play an important role by educating their pregnant customers on the importance of ensuring enough of this vitally important vitamin.

A Final Consideration

Delivery system is very important in regards to prenatal supplements. Given that the majority of women experience nausea, sensitive palates, difficulties swallowing pills, and/or keeping pills down while pregnant, retailers (and manufacturers) can do their pregnant customers a great service by stocking effervescent prenatal multivitamins. For my own patients, effervescent prenatal multivitamins are often a better alternative to traditional pill-form prenatal vitamins. Effervescence replaces pills with a packet of effervescent powder that mixes with water to create a tasty, sparkling drink. Plus, by stocking effervescent choices retailers can improve their customers’ experiences with daily prenatal multivitamins.