Vitamins and minerals are important during pregnancy, but some need special attention, especially those that promote cell division and the formation of new life.

A varied and balanced approach to eating is the best way to get the vitamins and minerals you and your baby need. Examples of important vitamins and minerals to include in your healthful eating plan are:

• Folate is important before conception and during the first three months. It is especially critical for lowering a newborn's risk for neural tube, or spinal cord, damage.
• Iron needs increase during pregnancy by about 50 percent because iron is essential in making the component of blood that carries oxygen throughout your body, including to the placenta for your baby.
• Vitamin C helps your body absorb the needed iron.
• Calcium is needs for two reasons: your baby's developing bones and preserving your own bone mass. Without enough calcium, your body will draw calcium from your bones to build your baby's bones.
• Vitamin D helps your body absorb the calcium you need during pregnancy.