Can I take USANA Nutritionals if I am pregnant or breast-feeding?

The Essentials, taken as directed, can be a good prenatal vitamin because they contain adequate amounts of folic acid, zinc, and other important vitamins and minerals which are needed in higher levels during pregnancy. It is important for women who are planning to become pregnant and those who are pregnant to get at least 400 mcg (100% of Daily Value) of folic acid per day. With the full dosage of the Essentials, 1,000 mcg of folic acid are included. If the mother does not have adequate intake of folic acid within the first few months of pregnancy, the fetus may develop neural tube defects (such as spina bifida). Studies show that taking at least 400 mcg of folic acid can reduce the risk of these birth defects by as much as 70%.

It is important for a woman to talk with their doctor about taking an iron supplement during their pregnancy, as iron is not included in the Essentials. During pregnancy, women should generally supplement with between 28-90 mg of elemental iron per day.

The Essentials use beta-carotene instead of pre-formed vitamin A, so toxicities are not an issue. (Just a side note: the amount of beta-carotene in a daily dose of the Essentials is roughly equivalent to the amount contained in one carrot.)

Research has shown that essential fatty acids are also important for the developing baby. It may be a good idea to supplement with OptOmega or BiOmega during pregnancy. Before taking any additional or different supplements, discuss them fully with your doctor, as it is important to protect the growing baby and mother.

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The following products, taken as directed, are strongly recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating:
Essentials
Active Calcium
OptOmega or BiOmega
Fibergy

The following products, taken as directed, are generally recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating, based on individual needs:
Macro-optimizers (Nutrimeal, Nutrition Bar, Fibergy)

The following products, taken as directed, are recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating ONLY on the advice of a physician:
Proflavanol & Proflavanol 90
E-Prime
Poly C
Ginkgo-PS
Visionex

The following products are NOT generally for use by pregnant or lactating women:
CoQuinone 30
Hepasil DTX
Procosa II
PhytoEstrin
Palmetto Plus