How It Works

For more than 100 years, expecting women have been adding nutrients to their diets to help their future offspring get a healthy start.

During the 1960s, women were encouraged to consume yeast extract because it had lots of B-vitamins that would help the developing fetus.

In 1998, the US Food and Drug Administration began requiring that folic acid be added to certain grain products. Healthy diets with adequate folate (found in leafy greens and citrus fruits) may reduce a woman's risk of having a child with brain or spinal cord birth defects.* The CDC estimates that 1,300 babies are born each year without neural tube defects who might otherwise have been affected.

Vitamins & Minerals

• Vitamin A helps to improve eyesight, promote immune function, supports the growth and remodeling of bones, and aids in the differentiation of cells. Vitamin A is also essential for lactation, reproduction, skin health, and the formation of steroid hormones.
• Vitamin C helps produce collagen (the framework for bones and connective tissue), protects against bruising, and aids in the absorption of iron and folate. Vitamin C also supports immune defenses and tissue development. Plus, the adrenal glands need large amounts of vitamin C to help produce energy.
• Vitamin D works synergistically with vitamin A and plays an important role in absorbing and regulating calcium and maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin D is also vital to the health of the nervous system and kidneys.
• Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that supports circulation, helps to maintain the fluidity of the blood, and is necessary for maintenance of the skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle membranes. Vitamin E also plays a crucial role in supporting immune function.
• Thiamin (vitamin B1) helps the body’s cells convert carbohydrates into energy. Thiamin is also essential for glucose metabolism and for healthy functioning of the muscles, nerves and heart. Plus, thiamin supports the nervous system and optimizes brain function.
• Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is important for red blood cell production, cellular function, and energy production. Riboflavin also functions as an antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Niacin (vitamin B3) nourishes the nervous and circulatory systems and supports the body's energy system. It also supports joint health, helps create and repair DNA, promotes healthy blood circulation, and exerts antioxidant effects. Plus, niacin contributes to the maintenance of healthy skin and hair and may help skin to appear smoother and brighter.
• Vitamin B6 is important for energy production and normal brain and nervous system function. Vitamin B6 is also needed to produce serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone that affects mood. Plus, vitamin B6 offers cardiovascular support and works synergistically with vitamin B12 and folate to metabolize homocysteine, an amino acid that can damage blood vessel linings.
• Folate (folic acid) is an essential nutrient that supports healthy prenatal development. Folate also supports immune function and helps protect against cell damage and free-radicals. Folate supplementation may also positively affect cognitive function, mood, energy levels, iron absorption, and overall well-being.
• Vitamin B12 plays a key role in blood cell formation and energy metabolism. Vitamin B12 is vital for proper nervous system function, preventing nerve damage and helping to maintain the fatty sheaths that cover and protect nerve endings. Plus, vitamin B12 is linked to the production of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter that aids memory, learning, and mood regulation.
• Biotin supports healthy immune function and may help support physical strength and stamina for improved athletic performance. Plus, biotin supports hair follicle growth and the production of keratin, the primary structural protein of hair, nails and skin.
• Pantothenic Acid aids the body in converting fat and sugar into energy. It is also necessary for healthy adrenal function and tissue repair, including skin tissue. Plus, pantothenic acid supports the health of the nervous and glandular systems and helps enhance athletic performance.
• Iron is a mineral used by the body in the production of red blood cells and proteins. Iron helps the blood transport oxygen from the lungs throughout the body.
• Iodine is essential for healthy thyroid gland function. It is needed to help regulate body temperature, produce blood cells, and support muscle and nerve functions. Iodine also plays an important role in the growth of hair follicles, skin cells and nail beds.
• Magnesium is critical for energy production, nervous system balance, and structural health. Magnesium helps muscles relax, supports brain and kidney function, and is essential for maintaining a healthy heart rhythm.
• Zinc is needed for hundreds of body functions, including sugar and protein metabolism, DNA formation, proper growth and development of bones, immune function, energy production, and the proper functioning of the antioxidant defense system.
• Copper is an essential trace mineral that helps build and maintain strong bones and muscles. Copper is also involved in the formation of connective tissues, including those found in bones and joints. And copper helps the body absorb iron, which is important for bone health. Plus, copper works together with zinc for healthy hair growth.

Ginger

Ginger has been used as both food and medicine in Asia for thousands of years. Traditionally, ginger has helped with a laundry list of complaints, including cold, fever, joint discomfort, aches, cramps, nervous system support, oral health, circulatory health, plus indigestion, gas, nausea and vomiting. Its warming properties may assist to warm the hands and feet. Researchers have found that ginger may help settle the stomach during times of occasional nausea, motion sickness and morning sickness.