Top 10 Prenatal Vitamins for a Healthy Pregnancy

It’s important to note that choosing the right prenatal vitamin can be a personal decision, and it’s always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. One of the most important components of a prenatal vitamin is folate- which is essential for everyone, but especially during pregnancy. Adequate amounts of folate are essential for brain development and to avoid neural tube defects. Folate is found naturally in foods such as leafy vegetables, peas, beans, avocado, milk, and eggs. Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate, found in most multivitamins.

Why does this matter? You may have heard of the MTHFR gene mutation, which can cause altered folate metabolism. Essentially, the folate is not converted into its active form, known as 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). This active form is essential for various biochemical processes, including DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation.

So, not only is folate one of the most important ingredients in your prenatal vitamin, the formulation matters as well. Methylated folate, often in the form of L-methylfolate, is the ideal form as it is the bioactive form of folate that can be readily used by the body. Here are ten prenatal vitamins that include methylated folate. This post contains affiliate links. You can also check out this post for ideas on a healthy pregnancy diet.

Top Prenatal vitamins with methylated folate:

1. Thorne Research Basic Prenatal:
   • Thorne Research Basic Prenatal is a comprehensive prenatal vitamin that includes L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate, the active form of folate. The serving size is 3 tablets, so one bottle should last about 30 days. This vitamin is generally well tolerated, and has DHA
   • Con: May be more expensive compared to other prenatal vitamin options.
2. SmartyPants Prenatal Complete:
   • This one is my favorites because it comes in a gummy form and it’s delicious!
   • SmartyPants Prenatal Complete is a gummy prenatal supplement that contains methylated folate, along with other essential nutrients like Omega-3 DHA and vitamin D. It is also well priced, and did I mention it’s a gummy and it’s delicious?
   • Con: Gummy vitamins may have added sugars.
3. Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Prenatal:
   • For those of you who like to get your vitamins from whole organic foods, this prenatal vitamin by Garden of Life is made from raw whole foods and includes L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate as well as probiotics.
   • Con: The capsules may be somewhat large and difficult to swallow.
4. Seeking Health Optimal Prenatal:
   • Optimal Prenatal by Seeking Health is a prenatal supplement designed to support a healthy pregnancy, and it includes Quatrefolic, a patented form of methylfolate. These vitamins are designed to be taken even through breastfeeding.
   • Con: the serving size is 8 capsules per serving, which is a lot of pills to swallow in one sitting.
5. Pure Encapsulations Prenatal Nutrients:
   • Pure Encapsulations Prenatal Nutrients is a hypoallergenic formula (soy-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian) that provides methylated folate, as well as other key nutrients required during pregnancy.
   • Con: many consumers have complained of worsening nausea.
6. MegaFood Baby & Me 2:
   • MegaFood Baby & Me 2 is a whole food prenatal vitamin that contains L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate, providing key nutrients in a form that’s easily absorbed. Because it’s made from whole foods it is easier on the stomach.
   • Con: Some individuals may need to take additional supplements for specific nutrients.
7. Naturelo Prenatal Whole Food Multivitamin:
   • Naturelo Prenatal Whole Food Multivitamin is a plant-based prenatal supplement that includes methylated folate and other essential vitamins and minerals. This vegetarian option has whole-food sourced ingredients and is generally well-tolerated. It is also reasonably priced!
   • Con: Slight fishy odor of the capsules.
8. New Chapter Perfect Prenatal:
   • New Chapter Perfect Prenatal is a fermented multivitamin that includes active forms of folate, such as 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate. The fermentation helps with better absorption.
   • Con: Some users may find the smell and taste off-putting, especially if you are not used to fermented products.
9. Pure Synergy Prenatal PureNatal:
   • Pure Synergy Prenatal PureNatal is a whole-food-based prenatal supplement that includes methylated folate and other nutrients in a natural form. This vegan formulation is all-natural, and great for those with allergies or sensitivities.
   • Con: this product does contain soy, so not advisable for those with soy allergy.
10. Rainbow Light Prenatal One:
    • Rainbow Light Prenatal One is a popular prenatal vitamin that includes L-methylfolate along with a blend of vitamins and minerals to support overall health during pregnancy. It is gentle on the stomach and includes probiotics.
    • Con: Some individuals may need additional supplementation for certain nutrients.

When choosing a prenatal vitamin, it’s essential to consider individual dietary needs, allergies, and any specific recommendations from your healthcare provider. Additionally, factors such as digestive sensitivities, gene mutations, and personal preferences may influence the choice between capsules, tablets, or gummies. Always consult with your healthcare professional to ensure that the prenatal vitamin you choose is appropriate for your specific health needs and pregnancy goals.