Preparing your body for pregnancy is an important step in ensuring a healthy and successful conception. One of the key factors in this process is making sure you are getting the right vitamins and nutrients to support your body’s needs. Prenatal vitamins are designed to provide the essential nutrients that are needed before and during pregnancy.
There are a wide variety of pre-conception vitamins available on the market, but it’s important to choose the ones that are best suited for your body’s specific needs. These vitamins are specifically formulated to provide the necessary nutrients such as folic acid, iron, and vitamin D that are crucial for a healthy pregnancy.
One of the most important vitamins for pre-conception is folic acid. This B vitamin plays a crucial role in the development of the baby’s neural tube and can help prevent certain birth defects. Iron is another important nutrient that helps support the increased blood volume during pregnancy and reduces the risk of anemia. Vitamin D is also vital for both mother and baby, as it helps support bone health and boosts the immune system.
By taking the best pre-conception vitamins, you can ensure that your body has all the necessary nutrients to support a healthy and successful pregnancy. It’s always important to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as they can help guide you in choosing the right prenatal vitamins for your specific needs.
Importance of Pre Conception Vitamins
Pre conception vitamins play a vital role in enhancing fertility and preparing the body for a healthy pregnancy. These vitamins are specifically formulated to provide essential nutrients that are crucial for reproductive health and the development of a growing fetus. Taking pre conception vitamins before trying to conceive can greatly improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Fertility is influenced by various factors, and having adequate levels of nutrients is one of the key aspects. Pre conception vitamins are designed to ensure that your body has all the necessary vitamins and minerals needed to support the growth and development of a baby. These vitamins help regulate hormones, improve egg quality, and promote healthy ovulation, all of which are important for conception.
Prenatal vitamins, which are a type of pre conception vitamin, are particularly beneficial during the early stages of pregnancy. They contain higher levels of certain nutrients such as folic acid, iron, and calcium. Folic acid, in particular, plays a crucial role in preventing neural tube defects and other birth defects. It is recommended that women start taking pre conception vitamins, including folic acid, at least one to three months before trying to conceive.
Additionally, pre conception vitamins can also help improve overall reproductive health in both men and women. For men, these vitamins can increase sperm count and motility, while for women, they can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve the health of the reproductive organs. Taking pre conception vitamins as part of a holistic approach to fertility can greatly increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
In conclusion, pre conception vitamins are essential for promoting fertility and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. These vitamins provide the necessary nutrients to support reproductive health and enhance the chances of conception. Whether you are planning to conceive or actively trying, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and start taking pre conception vitamins to optimize your fertility and prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.
Key Nutrients for Pre Conception
During the pre-conception period, it is crucial to ensure that your body is getting all the necessary nutrients to support a healthy pregnancy. Here are some key nutrients that play a vital role in fertility and the development of a healthy fetus:
- Folic Acid: Folic acid is one of the most important vitamins for pre-conception. It helps in the development of the baby’s neural tube, which later forms the brain and spinal cord. Adequate folic acid intake before conception can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects.
- Iron: Iron is essential for both the mother and the baby. It helps in the production of red blood cells and carries oxygen to the growing fetus. Adequate iron levels are crucial for preventing anemia during pregnancy.
- Calcium: Calcium is necessary for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. It also helps in maintaining the mother’s bone health during pregnancy. Adequate calcium intake is crucial to prevent complications like preeclampsia.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that help in the development of the baby’s brain and eyes. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone development and immune system function. It also helps in the absorption of calcium. Adequate vitamin D levels are important for both the mother and the baby’s health.
- Antioxidants: Antioxidants, such as vitamin C and E, help in protecting the cells from damage caused by free radicals. They can improve fertility and promote a healthy pregnancy by reducing oxidative stress.
In addition to these key nutrients, it is important to have a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. You may also consider taking prenatal vitamins to ensure that you are getting all the necessary nutrients for pre-conception and a healthy pregnancy. However, it is always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.
Vitamin D and Pre Pregnancy
When it comes to ensuring a healthy prenatal period, vitamin D plays a crucial role. This essential nutrient is important for both mother and baby, promoting fertility and aiding in conception.
Vitamin D is known as the “sunshine vitamin” as it is primarily synthesized in the body through exposure to sunlight. However, many people do not get enough sunlight or have a deficiency in this vital nutrient.
Research suggests that maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D before pregnancy can positively impact fertility and increase the chances of conception. It is believed that vitamin D helps regulate reproductive hormones, improve egg quality, and support the implantation of the fertilized egg in the uterus.
Furthermore, studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may increase the risk of complications such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. Ensuring optimal vitamin D levels before conceiving can help prevent these potential complications and support a healthy pregnancy.
To increase vitamin D intake before pregnancy, it is recommended to spend time outdoors and expose your skin to sunlight, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense. However, it is important to balance sun exposure with sun protection to avoid sunburn and the harmful effects of UV radiation.
In addition to sunlight, vitamin D can also be obtained from dietary sources such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), fortified dairy products, and egg yolks. However, it can be challenging to obtain sufficient vitamin D from food alone, which is why prenatal multivitamins often contain this essential nutrient.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended before starting any supplementation regimen, as they can assess your individual needs and provide guidance on the appropriate dosage of vitamin D for pre pregnancy.
Folic Acid for Fertility
When it comes to pre conception and prenatal vitamins, one essential nutrient that cannot be overlooked is folic acid. Folic acid plays a crucial role in fertility and is particularly important for women who are considering getting pregnant.
Folic acid is a B vitamin that helps the body make new cells. It is especially important in the early stages of pregnancy when the baby’s neural tube is forming. Adequate consumption of folic acid before conception can help reduce the risk of birth defects, such as spina bifida.
How Folic Acid Affects Fertility
Folic acid helps support fertility by promoting healthy egg development and implantation. It is important for the production and maintenance of DNA, which is necessary for proper cell division and growth. Research suggests that folic acid may also improve the quality of both male and female reproductive cells.
Studies have shown that women who take folic acid before conception have a lower risk of miscarriage and are more likely to conceive. Furthermore, folic acid supplementation can help regulate ovulation and improve menstrual cycles, increasing the chances of successful conception.
Food Sources and Supplementation
Folic acid can be found naturally in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, fortified grains, and nuts. However, it can be challenging to get enough folic acid through diet alone, especially for women who are planning to conceive.
Therefore, it is recommended to take a folic acid supplement of at least 400 micrograms daily before and during early pregnancy. Many prenatal vitamins already contain the recommended amount of folic acid, making it easier for women to ensure they are getting enough of this important nutrient.
In conclusion, folic acid is a key nutrient for fertility and should be included in pre conception and prenatal vitamin regimens. It is crucial for healthy cell development and has been shown to improve fertility outcomes. Whether through diet or supplementation, ensuring adequate folic acid intake is an essential part of preparing for a healthy pregnancy.
Iron for Pre Conception
Iron is an essential nutrient for women planning to get pregnant. It plays a crucial role in supporting a healthy pregnancy and fertility. Iron helps in the production of healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. It also supports the development and proper functioning of the placenta.
During the pre-conception period, it is important for women to have adequate iron levels in their body. Low iron levels can lead to anemia, which can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy and affect fertility. Taking iron supplements before conception can help prevent iron deficiency and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
There are different forms of iron supplements available, including iron tablets and liquid iron. It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a prenatal specialist to determine the appropriate dosage and form of iron supplement that is suitable for individual needs.
In addition to taking iron supplements, it is also important to incorporate iron-rich foods into the diet. Good sources of iron include lean meats, poultry, fish, legumes, spinach, and fortified cereals. Pairing iron-rich foods with foods high in vitamin C can enhance iron absorption.
It is worth noting that excessive iron intake can be harmful, so it is essential to follow the recommended dosage and guidelines provided by healthcare professionals. Iron supplements should be taken as part of a comprehensive prenatal vitamin and mineral regimen to support overall fertility and prenatal health.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Pre Pregnancy
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for prenatal health and fertility. These important nutrients play a crucial role in pre-conception and throughout pregnancy.
During pre-pregnancy, omega-3 fatty acids help regulate menstrual cycles and promote ovulation, increasing the chances of conception. They also support a healthy reproductive system in both men and women.
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation in the reproductive organs and improve overall fertility. They also support the development of a healthy uterine lining, which is essential for implantation and a successful pregnancy.
For women planning to conceive, taking omega-3 fatty acid supplements can help balance hormones and regulate the menstrual cycle, making it easier to track ovulation. This can increase the chances of getting pregnant.
During pregnancy, omega-3 fatty acids are crucial for the development of the baby’s brain and eyes. They contribute to the growth of the fetus and support healthy cognitive development. Studies have shown that mothers who consume adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy have children with higher IQs and better cognitive function.
Omega-3 fatty acids also have a positive impact on maternal mental health during pregnancy. They have been shown to reduce the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety, promoting overall well-being for the mother.
In conclusion, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for pre-pregnancy and pregnancy health. They support fertility, regulate menstrual cycles, and contribute to the development of the baby’s brain and eyes. It is important for women planning to conceive to include omega-3 fatty acids in their diet or consider taking supplements to ensure optimal prenatal health.
Zinc and its Benefits for Fertility
When it comes to prenatal health and preparing for conception, zinc is a vital mineral that should be included in a woman’s pre-pregnancy vitamin regimen. Zinc plays an essential role in fertility and is necessary for the production of healthy eggs and sperm.
For women, zinc helps regulate hormonal balance, which is crucial for regular ovulation and a healthy menstrual cycle. It also supports a healthy egg maturation process, improves egg quality, and helps prevent chromosomal abnormalities that can lead to miscarriage or birth defects.
In addition to its effects on female fertility, zinc also plays a crucial role in male fertility. It is an indispensable nutrient for the production of sperm cells and supports overall sperm health and function. Zinc deficiency in men can lead to low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology.
Furthermore, zinc has antioxidant properties that help protect reproductive cells from oxidative stress and DNA damage. This is especially important for women as they age, as oxidative stress and DNA damage can negatively impact egg quality and fertility.
It is worth noting that zinc works in synergy with other pre-pregnancy vitamins and minerals, such as folic acid, iron, and vitamin E. Therefore, it is important to ensure adequate intake of these nutrients to optimize fertility and increase the chances of a healthy conception and pregnancy.
It is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider or a fertility specialist to determine the appropriate dosage of zinc supplements based on individual needs and medical history. They can also provide guidance on other pre-conception vitamins and overall lifestyle changes that can positively impact fertility and support a healthy pregnancy journey.
Vitamin C and Reproductive Health
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in reproductive health. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the body’s cells, including those involved in the reproductive system, from damage caused by free radicals. In addition, vitamin C is important for the production and maintenance of collagen, a protein that provides structure to the tissues in the reproductive organs.
When it comes to pregnancy, vitamin C is particularly important. It helps support a healthy immune system, which is essential for both the mother and the developing fetus. Vitamin C also aids in the absorption of iron, another essential nutrient for a healthy pregnancy. It is involved in the development of the baby’s bones, teeth, and connective tissues.
Studies have shown that vitamin C supplementation can also improve fertility in both men and women. In men, vitamin C has been found to improve sperm quality, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. In women, vitamin C has been associated with improved hormone levels and increased chances of conception.
It is recommended that women who are trying to conceive or are already pregnant take prenatal vitamins that contain vitamin C. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C during pregnancy is 85 milligrams per day for women aged 19 years and older. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for individual needs.
In conclusion, vitamin C is an important nutrient for reproductive health. It supports a healthy immune system, aids in the absorption of iron, and plays a role in the development of the baby’s tissues. It can also improve fertility in both men and women. Therefore, including vitamin C-rich foods in the diet and taking prenatal vitamins that contain vitamin C is highly recommended for a healthy pregnancy and optimal reproductive health.
Vitamin E and Pre Conception
Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in promoting fertility and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Adequate levels of vitamin E in both men and women are important for optimizing their reproductive health.
For women who are planning to conceive, vitamin E can help improve ovulation and increase the chances of successful fertilization. It is known to enhance the quality of eggs and prevent chromosomal abnormalities that can lead to miscarriages or birth defects.
In men, vitamin E is essential for maintaining the integrity of the sperm’s DNA. It protects the sperm cells from oxidative damage and improves their motility. This is particularly important for couples who are struggling with male infertility.
Benefits of Vitamin E during Pre Conception
1. Increased Fertility: Vitamin E promotes healthy cervical mucus production, creating an optimal environment for sperm to travel through the reproductive tract. It also helps regulate hormones, facilitating the entire conception process.
2. Reduced Risk of Miscarriages: Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties protect the developing fetus from oxidative stress, reducing the risk of miscarriages. It also supports healthy placental development and ensures proper blood circulation to the uterus, creating a favorable environment for a healthy pregnancy.
Food Sources of Vitamin E
Vitamin E can be obtained from various food sources, including:
- Almonds
- Sunflower seeds
- Avocado
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Olive oil
While it’s possible to get an adequate amount of vitamin E through diet alone, some women and men may benefit from additional supplementation. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if vitamin E supplements are necessary for your specific needs.
Overall, vitamin E is a valuable nutrient that can greatly contribute to pre conception health for both men and women. Including vitamin E-rich foods in your diet or considering supplements can help optimize fertility and increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Riboflavin for Pre Pregnancy
Riboflavin, also known as vitamin B2, is a crucial nutrient for pre pregnancy health. It plays a significant role in promoting fertility and ensuring a healthy pregnancy.
During the pre conception stage, riboflavin helps in the development and maintenance of healthy eggs and sperm. It is involved in the production of genetic material and the formation of red blood cells, which are both essential for optimal fertility.
Riboflavin also supports the body’s metabolism and energy production, which are necessary for the reproductive system to function properly. It aids in the digestion and absorption of nutrients, ensuring that the body is able to obtain the necessary vitamins and minerals for a healthy pregnancy.
Furthermore, riboflavin is important for the development of the baby’s organs and tissues. It is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that forms the structural framework for organs and tissues. Adequate riboflavin intake before conception can help prevent birth defects and promote a healthy growth and development of the baby.
To ensure sufficient riboflavin intake, it is recommended to consume a balanced diet rich in riboflavin-containing foods such as milk, eggs, lean meats, whole grains, and leafy green vegetables. However, it may be difficult to obtain optimal levels of riboflavin solely through diet, especially for women who are planning to conceive.
In such cases, a prenatal vitamin that includes riboflavin can be beneficial. Prenatal vitamins are specifically formulated to provide the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy, including riboflavin. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.
In conclusion, riboflavin plays a crucial role in pre pregnancy health and fertility. It supports the development and maintenance of healthy eggs and sperm, aids in metabolism and energy production, and helps in the development of the baby’s organs and tissues. Ensuring adequate riboflavin intake through a balanced diet and potentially with the help of prenatal vitamins can contribute to a healthy pregnancy and a successful conception.
Niacin and Female Fertility
When it comes to prenatal care and preparing for pregnancy, taking the right vitamins is crucial. One vitamin that plays an important role in female fertility is niacin, also known as vitamin B3. Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin that is involved in various processes in the body, including energy production, DNA repair, and hormone synthesis.
Research has shown that niacin deficiency can have negative effects on female fertility. Adequate levels of niacin are needed for proper ovarian function and hormone balance, which are essential for successful conception and a healthy pregnancy. Niacin also helps improve blood flow to the reproductive organs, increasing the chances of implantation and successful fertilization.
Benefits of Niacin for Female Fertility
1. Hormone Regulation: Niacin plays a role in the production of sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are essential for regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterus for pregnancy.
2. Ovulation Support: Niacin helps support healthy ovulation by ensuring the proper release of eggs from the ovaries. It also helps maintain the health of the ovaries and prevents any oxidative damage that can affect fertility.
3. Improved Egg Quality: Niacin has antioxidant properties that help protect the eggs from damage and improve their quality. This is important for successful fertilization and a healthy pregnancy.
Sources of Niacin
Niacin can be obtained from various food sources, including:
| Food Source | Niacin Content (mg) |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast | 13.6 |
| Brown rice | 3.3 |
| Salmon | 8.6 |
| Green peas | 2.1 |
| Peanuts | 4.2 |
It is important to note that while a healthy diet can provide some niacin, it may not be sufficient for women trying to conceive. In such cases, taking a prenatal vitamin that includes niacin is recommended to ensure adequate levels for optimal fertility.
In conclusion, niacin is an essential vitamin for female fertility. It plays a crucial role in hormone regulation, ovulation support, and improving egg quality. While it can be obtained from certain food sources, taking a prenatal vitamin that includes niacin is recommended to ensure sufficient intake for a healthy pregnancy.
Vitamin B6 and Pre Conception
Vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in fertility, pregnancy, and prenatal health. It is an important vitamin to consider when planning for conception as it helps support a healthy pregnancy.
Benefits of Vitamin B6 for Conception
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is involved in the regulation of hormonal balance and can help increase fertility in both men and women. It plays a vital role in the production of sex hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen, which are necessary for successful conception and implantation of a fertilized egg.
Vitamin B6 also helps in the production of healthy sperm and can improve sperm motility, which is important for the fertilization process. In women, it helps regulate the menstrual cycle and support the development of a healthy uterine lining for implantation.
Importance of Vitamin B6 in Pregnancy
During pregnancy, Vitamin B6 continues to play a crucial role in the development of the baby and the overall health of the mother. It is involved in the formation of the baby’s nervous system, red blood cells, and DNA.
Vitamin B6 helps alleviate common pregnancy symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. It can also help prevent preeclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Remember, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement or medication, including prenatal vitamins.
Ensuring you have adequate levels of Vitamin B6 before conception can have a positive impact on fertility and overall prenatal health. Talk to your doctor about including a Vitamin B6 supplement in your preconception plan.
Thiamine and its Role in Fertility
Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is essential for overall health and plays a crucial role in fertility and preconception. This water-soluble vitamin is necessary for the proper functioning of the reproductive system and is involved in the production of healthy eggs and sperm.
Improved Ovulation:
Thiamine plays a key role in regulating the menstrual cycle and promoting regular ovulation. Adequate levels of thiamine are necessary for the release of mature eggs from the ovaries during each menstrual cycle. A deficiency in thiamine can disrupt this process and lead to irregular ovulation or even anovulation.
Optimal Embryo and Fetal Development:
During pregnancy, thiamine is crucial for the development of the embryo and fetus. It helps in the formation of the neural tube, which eventually develops into the brain and spinal cord of the baby. Thiamine also plays a vital role in the development of other organs and tissues.
Energy Production:
Thiamine is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, which are the main source of energy for the body. During pregnancy, the demand for energy increases significantly. Adequate levels of thiamine ensure that the body can effectively convert food into energy, supporting the needs of both the mother and the growing baby.
Reduced Risk of Birth Defects:
Deficiency in thiamine during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects in the baby. Adequate levels of thiamine are crucial for preventing developmental abnormalities, such as neural tube defects, heart defects, and cleft lip or palate.
Prenatal Vitamins:
To ensure sufficient thiamine intake, it is recommended to take prenatal vitamins that contain this essential nutrient. Prenatal vitamins are specially formulated to meet the increased nutritional needs during preconception and pregnancy. They provide a comprehensive blend of vitamins, minerals, and other important nutrients, including thiamine, to support fertility and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
In Conclusion
Thiamine plays a vital role in fertility and preconception by supporting regular ovulation, promoting optimal embryo and fetal development, providing energy, and reducing the risk of birth defects. Taking a prenatal vitamin that includes thiamine is an important step towards ensuring a healthy pregnancy and maximizing fertility.
Pantothenic Acid for Pre Pregnancy
When it comes to pre-conception vitamins, one nutrient that should be on every woman’s radar is pantothenic acid. This essential vitamin has a crucial role in promoting a healthy pregnancy and supporting the growth and development of the baby.
Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, plays a key part in metabolizing carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, which are all essential for the development of a healthy baby. It also helps in the production of hormones and cholesterol, which are necessary for fertility and hormonal balance during pre-pregnancy.
Furthermore, pantothenic acid is known for its ability to reduce stress and improve energy levels, both of which are vital for women who are trying to conceive. Stress can have a negative impact on fertility, so taking pantothenic acid can help alleviate stress and increase the chances of getting pregnant.
In addition to its benefits for pre-pregnancy, pantothenic acid is also important during pregnancy. It helps in the formation of the baby’s brain and nervous system and supports the production of red blood cells and antibodies. This vitamin also aids in the absorption of other prenatal vitamins, maximizing their effectiveness.
It’s worth noting that pantothenic acid can be found naturally in many foods, including chicken, eggs, whole grains, and vegetables such as broccoli and sweet potatoes. However, it can be difficult to get enough pantothenic acid through diet alone, which is why taking a prenatal vitamin that includes this essential nutrient is highly recommended.
Overall, pantothenic acid is a vital component of pre-conception vitamins. Its role in promoting fertility, supporting a healthy pregnancy, and ensuring the baby’s proper development makes it an essential nutrient for women who are planning to conceive.
Choline and Pre Conception
When it comes to pre-conception and fertility, finding the right combination of vitamins and nutrients is crucial. One key nutrient that shouldn’t be overlooked is choline. Choline is a vital nutrient for women who are trying to conceive and for those who want to optimize their prenatal health.
Choline has been found to play a significant role in fetal brain development, as well as in preventing certain birth defects. It is especially important during the early stages of pregnancy when the neural tube is forming. Adequate levels of choline have been shown to reduce the risk of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
In addition to its benefits for the baby, choline also plays a crucial role in maternal health. It has been linked to a lower risk of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes, two serious conditions that can arise during pregnancy. Choline has also been shown to promote healthy liver function and aid in the metabolism of fats, which are important for the mother’s overall well-being.
Unfortunately, many women do not consume enough choline in their diets. This is where pre-conception vitamins can come in handy. By choosing a prenatal vitamin that includes choline, you can ensure that you are getting an adequate amount of this important nutrient to support your fertility and prenatal health.
It’s important to note that choline is not found in all prenatal vitamins, so you may need to carefully read labels or consult with your healthcare provider to find a supplement that includes choline. Additionally, it’s always best to obtain nutrients from whole foods whenever possible. Good dietary sources of choline include eggs, lean meats, fish, and cruciferous vegetables.
In conclusion, choline is a crucial nutrient for pre-conception and fertility. By ensuring that you are getting enough choline, either through diet or supplementation, you can support your overall health and increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy.