“Just got home from my midwife appointment and wanted to let you know the prenatal package I’ve been using from your store from your recommendation is Ahhhhmaysing! Midwife says my levels could not be any more perfect, irons the best she’s ever seen!!!! Thank you, I’ve never felt better” 

–  Zabrina Scharfe, 32 weeks pregnant with her 3rd child.  Jan. 2018

About a year ago I sat down with one of the nutritionists here at the Granary to discuss the various nutritional needs of different sections of the population. We were on a quest to develop a plan to help people meet their unique nutritional goals in an effective and convenient way. We started by brainstorming who had unique nutritional needs.  At the time I had just had my third baby and was still exclusively breastfeeding, so naturally pregnant and nursing women were near the top of my list. I had successfully navigated my third pregnancy and birth without any major complications, but like many, I struggled with iron levels and I worried about giving my child optimal nutritional conditions in which to thrive. I found this concern multiplies with subsequent children because as mothers we tend to take care of ourselves after taking care of everyone else.

In order to help new and experienced mothers meet their unique nutritional needs required during pregnancy and nursing we developed a Prenatal Support Package. The Prenatal Package supports both mother and baby by providing the required nutrients often recommend by midwives and doctors. We have taken much consideration to put together a package that is both highly effective and cost considerate. One package will give moms optimal nutritional support for 45 days for a cost of $115.00 That is more than a 10% savings.

Prenatal Multi-Vitamin with Folic Acid – 1 capsule with each breakfast, lunch and dinner.

The recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for a number of nutrients nearly doubles during pregnancy and a list of unwanted complications can arise if mom falls short of satisfying these needs. A well balanced Multi Vitamin designed to support these needs, such as the Progressive Prenatal Formula can support a women’s needs during all stages of pregnancy. The addition of Folic Acid is extremely important to reduce the risk of birth defects such as spina bifida. Our bodies are not designed to process a whole days worth of vitamins & minerals at one time. In order to achieve optimal absorption of nutrients, divided does of multivitamins are always recommended. We recommend 1 capsules be taken with a meal, ideally three times a day. A minimum of 2 times a day will also provide nutritional advantages. 

High DHA Fish Oil – 2 soft gels daily with food 

Fish oil is one of the most studied supplements on the market. Many of these studies have linked one of the active compounds (DHA) found in fish oil with brain development both in utero and beyond. Our Prenatal Package recommends Nordic Naturals Prenatal DHA to support brain, eye and nervous system function in developing babies as well as supporting immunity and mood for moms. It is recommend that 2 soft gels be taken daily with food. They can be taken with other supplements. 

Multi Strain Probiotic – 1 capsule daily at bedtime

Probiotics provide the body with beneficial bacteria which are essential for healthy gut flora.   Beneficial bacteria colonize the digestive tract, lining of the mouth, urinary tract, vagina, stomach and the surface of the skin.  They provide balance against “bad” bacteria or yeasts which can help prevent UTIs or yeast infections which can be common during pregnancy and nursing.   Probiotics can also help with heartburn, gas and constipation. Probiotic supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of eczema and allergies in children. This package includes the Natural Factors Women’s Formula Probiotic with 12 billion active bacteria and the addition of cranberry for more antioxidants and added UTI prevention. One capsule should be taken daily, with or without food. Unless indicated otherwise on the label, the best time to take a probiotic is at bedtime which allows the bacteria uninterrupted opportunity to colonize the gut.  Probiotics can be taken with other supplements but should be taken at least 2 and up to 4 hours ways from any antibiotic medication. 

Iron – Iron deficiency or anemia is one of the most common, preventable pregnancy complications. Iron is hard to absorb for many people and the iron needs during pregnancy increase dramatically as the mother’s blood volume increases to transport oxygen to the fetus. Iron deficiency can result in extreme fatigue as well as complications at birth. Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your iron levels throughout your pregnancy. Many women are advised to take an iron supplement at some point during or after pregnancy.  Some iron supplements can be very hard to take  causing constipation and other stomach issues. Easy to digest, liquid iron can be cost prohibitive for many. All of this taken into consideration, our Prenatal package includes an easy to absorb, non constipating Carbonyl Iron capsule from Ottawa based company Pure Lab. It is recommend that 1 or 2 capsules be taken daily, ideally on an empty stomach.  

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Tips for a health pregnancy

  • Stay hydrated: drink lots of water. 
  • Eat a balanced diet with regular, healthy snacks. 
  • Include lots of calcium rich foods such as: almonds, broccoli, dairy products, oranges, sardines 
  • Decrease consumption of caffeine, fried or processed foods, sugar and white flour
  • Make time for gentle exercise like an evening walk around the neighbourhood or calming yoga
  • Get plenty of rest and nap when you need to!

As with all natural health products, be sure to talk to your health practitioner to ensure the products are right for you. Brands and products can not be substituted for the quoted price, however, we are always happy to help you find the products that are right for you. Check out our other Health Packages