Prenatal vitamins: OK for women who aren't pregnant?
Is it OK to take prenatal vitamins if I'm not pregnant?
- No name / No state given
Answer
Prenatal vitamins are multivitamins intended for women who are pregnant or hope to become pregnant. Sometimes prenatal vitamins are recommended for women who are breast-feeding, too. Most prenatal vitamins contain more folic acid, iron and calcium than do standard adult multivitamins. Prenatal vitamins have been claimed to promote thicker hair and stronger nails, but researchers haven't yet proved whether prenatal vitamins truly have these effects. Although prenatal vitamins are safe for otherwise healthy adults, they may cause constipation, nausea or vomiting. Keep in mind that if you're generally healthy and eat a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and lean meats, you don't likely need dietary supplements of any type.
Reprints and permissions
Home 
