The Science Behind Anti-Nausea Formulas in Prenatal Vitamins
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms during pregnancy, affecting up to 80% of pregnant women to some degree. These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, leading to dehydration, weight loss, and a decreased quality of life. Prenatal vitamins are essential for supporting the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. Incorporating anti-nausea formulas into these vitamins can provide crucial relief for expecting mothers.
Understanding Pregnancy-Related Nausea
Pregnancy-related nausea, often referred to as morning sickness, can occur at any time of the day and is most common during the first trimester. While the exact cause of morning sickness is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to the increase in pregnancy hormones, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and estrogen.
The Role of Vitamins in Alleviating Nausea
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Vitamin B6
One of the key components in anti-nausea formulas within prenatal vitamins is Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine). A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that Vitamin B6 significantly reduces the severity of nausea in early pregnancy. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends Vitamin B6 as a first-line treatment for mild to moderate nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.1
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Iron (as Ferrous Fumarate).
Iron is crucial during pregnancy for supporting increased blood volume and fetal development. Ferrous fumarate is often recommended as it is a form of iron that some individuals find easier to digest, potentially reducing gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, compared to other forms of iron.2
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Magnesium.
Magnesium plays multiple roles in the body, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. Its supplementation during pregnancy is sometimes associated with reduced leg cramps and improved overall comfort, which could indirectly impact nausea or vomiting sensations by reducing stress or discomfort in the body.3
The inclusion of anti-nausea formulas in prenatal vitamins is supported by scientific evidence. Ingredients like Vitamin B6, Iron and Magnesium have been shown to safely and effectively reduce nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and/or indirectly impact nausea or vomiting sensations, ensuring a safer and more comfortable pregnancy experience.
How much Vitamins B6, Magnesium and Iron do I need?
Whether or not you're dealing with nausea, pregnant and lactating women need their essential share of these vitamins. What is the daily recommended amount of these vitamins for pregnant women? The American Pregnancy Association recommends the following daily allowances for pregnant women4:
- Vitamins B6 - 1.9 mg
- Iron - 27 mg
- Magnesium - 350-360 mg
That said, if you’re experiencing persistent nausea, you may benefit from more than the recommended amounts to soothe your stomach.
BabyRx Complete Prenatal+ and Its Anti-Nausea Formula
Among the range of prenatal vitamins available, BabyRx Complete Prenatal+ stands out for its inclusion of an anti-nausea formula. This comprehensive prenatal vitamin is designed to support both maternal health and fetal development, while also addressing the common discomfort of nausea. By incorporating clinically studied amounts of Vitamin B6, iron and magnesium extract, BabyRx Complete Prenatal+ offers expecting mothers a source of essential nutrients and a natural way to alleviate morning sickness. You should always speak to a healthcare provider directly about any symptoms, questions, or changes to your diet or supplement routine.
Sources:
- Reference: Matthews A, Haas DM, O'Mathúna DP, Dowswell T. Interventions for nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2015, Issue 9. Art. No.: CD007575. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007575.pub4.
- Lo JO, Benson AE, Martens KL, Hedges MA, McMurry HS, DeLoughery T, Aslan JE, Shatzel JJ. Eur J Haematol. 2023 Feb;110(2):123-130. doi: 10.1111/ejh.13892. Epub 2022 Nov 20.e.
- Dahle LO, Berg G, Hammar M, Hurtig M, Larsson L. The effect of oral magnesium substitution on pregnancy-induced leg cramps. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology 1995; 173(1):175–80. 10.1016/0002-9378(95)90186-8.
- Pregnancy Vitamins and Nutrients. American Pregnancy Association.
