Trimester Pack: Prenatal Daily Packets

Our prenatal multivitamin supplement was carefully developed using peer-reviewed studies that reflect the latest research in prenatal nutrition. The formula development was led by our Medical Director and board-certified OBGYN, Dr. Kenosha Gleaton, an award-winning registered dietitian-nutritionist and specialist in fertility, Lauren Manaker, RD, and our Chief Women's Health Officer, Halle Tecco MBA, MPH.

To ensure optimal impact, the dosage of each ingredient was meticulously calculated in accordance with the latest data in prenatal research.

The Prenatal Daily Packets is formulated with premium, high bioavailability ingredients including key vitamins and nutrients for maximum efficacy and potency. This includes MTHF folate (B9), methylcobalamin B12, ferrous bisglycinate chelated iron, and ultra-pure vegan DHA.

All of our vitamins are made in an FDA Registered and Inspected Facility, which meets or exceeds FDA 12 CFR 111 guidelines, and is also GMP Certified.

In addition to testing the raw material components of our vitamins to ensure their purity and accuracy, we also test each batch after it is produced to ensure final product integrity and quality.

Testing includes a chemical analysis to ensure accuracy, a microbial analysis (salmonella, E. coli, yeast, and mold) and a heavy metals test (including arsenic, cadmium, and lead). The Prenatal Daily Packets conform to levels deemed safe by the FDA’s current Good Manufacturing Practices as well as California Prop 65.

Our vitamins are free of artificial and synthetic dyes, and all allergens are disclosed on our label. Additionally, our vitamins are manufactured under strict procedures to ensure there is no cross-contamination during manufacturing and storage.

MTHF folate (L-5-MTHF) is the most abundant folate found in the human body. It is naturally found in food, but is most easily absorbed from a dietary supplement. MTHF folate is the highest bioavailability folate found in dietary supplements. It can be immediately utilized by your body and doesn’t need to be converted by the enzyme methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR).

Up to 25% of the population has a variant of the MTHFR gene (MTHFR 677TT) that significantly impairs their ability to metabolize folic acid. Individuals with this MTHFR variation are also at a higher risk of having a child with neural tube defects. The research is still preliminary, but people with the MTHFR 677TT variant are likely to benefit from MTHF folate supplementation over taking a folic acid supplement. Learn more ⟶

All B12 contains the mineral cobalt, which is why they are collectively called cobalamins. B12 can be formulated as synthetic cyanocobalamin or bioidentical methylcobalamin. The Prenatal Multi contains bioidentical methylcobalamin, the bioactive form of B12 that is naturally found in the human body. B12 is only naturally found in animal products, so prenatal supplementation is especially important for vegetarians.

Both B12 and folate are essential to homocysteine metabolism, an amino acid which is tied to increased risks of neural tube defects, heart disease, and stroke. B12 is used as a cofactor in the methylation of homocysteine to methionine by methionine synthase, which uses MTHF folate as a methyl donor. Methionine is then further converted into S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), which serves as the primary methyl donor of the cell.‡

Omega-3s are a class of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (FA) that are integral to the formation of neuronal cell membranes in the brain and retina. The human body cannot synthesize most omega-3s, and instead, must rely on dietary sources.

There are three major omega-3 FAs: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Each FA has its own unique properties and benefits, but DHA is the most critical during pregnancy. It is the primary structural component of the brain, including the cerebral cortex, the outer layer of the human brain that is responsible for higher-order cognitive behavior including speech, language, memory, personality, and decision making. DHA intake is positively correlated with improved pregnancy outcomes, like full-term gestational length and healthy birth weight, as well as the on-time completion of developmental milestones post birth. EPA intake is also correlated with improved heart health and cholesterol. ALA isn’t as an important FA for supplementation, and there is little evidence that it is helpful.

Not all omega-3 FAs are created equally. Depending on the source of omega-3 FAs in a supplement, the ratio of DHA, EPA, and ALA will be different. Omega-3s sourced from algae, like ours, are highly enriched in DHA. Omega-3s from vegan sources, such as flaxseed oil, chia seed oil, or walnut oil, do not contain DHA. Instead, they predominantly contain ALA, which isn’t useful during pregnancy. Always read the label, and check the DHA content of your omega-3 supplement.‡

DHA intake during pregnancy is critical for the development of the brain and retina and can only be acquired from dietary sources. Most prenatal DHA supplements fall short of ACOG and APA’s recommendations of 200-300 mg of DHA daily during pregnancy and breastfeeding, barely making the 100 mg mark. Ours exceeds recommendations, with 450 mg of DHA per serving.‡

Our vegan and 100% natural omega DHA is derived from a strain of wild-sourced marine algae, initially discovered and isolated from the pristine coastal waters of the Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia, Canada. The DHA oil undergoes an environmentally-friendly, chemical-free extraction process to eliminate virtually all traces of taste and odor. Each batch is then tested for heavy metals and allergens.

When selecting an iron form for our prenatal, we chose Ferrochel® iron for its high bioavailability and gastrointestinal tolerability. Ferrochel® is a patented iron (in the form of iron bisglycinate), providing 100% elemental iron.

It is a neutral molecule and does not break down in stomach acid — it is delivered intact to the intestine, where it is easily absorbed. Other types of iron have low bioavailability and often produce unpleasant gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, constipation, and gastric upset. Additionally, Ferrochel® iron is easier to absorb and less likely to block the absorption of other nutrients, such as vitamin E and calcium.

Iron is the elemental transporter of oxygen in blood as hemoglobin and the facilitator of oxygen storage in muscles as myoglobin. Pregnant women require two to three times as much iron as non-pregnant women. Iron supplementation during pregnancy protects against pregnancy-induced anemia, a condition where you do not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. Some studies have shown that anemia during pregnancy increases a mother’s risk of hemorrhage and the chance of having a child with low birth weight. Research on children with iron deficiency anemia have found increased risks for impaired neurocognitive development.

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is key in the formation of bones and teeth, nerve conduction, intracellular signaling, and muscle function. Pregnant women absorb calcium more effectively than non-pregnant women, especially during the last half of pregnancy, when fetal demands on maternal calcium are greatest. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for elemental calcium is 1,000 mg per day in pregnant and lactating women. The Dietary Guidelines Scientific Report estimated that almost a quarter of United States pregnant women consume less than 800 mg per day. Calcium supplementation during pregnancy ensures that you can support the healthy development of your baby's bones and teeth.‡

We use calcium citrate, which is more easily absorbed than calcium carbonate, and less likely to cause side effects like gas, bloating, or constipation. Calcium citrate is also useful for people with achlorhydria, inflammatory bowel disease, or absorption disorders.

We use magnesium malate, a highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Magnesium supplementation during pregnancy may be able to reduce growth restriction of the fetus and pre‐eclampsia and increase birth weight.

Approximately 90%–95% of pregnant women don't get enough choline through diet, and most prenatals contain little—if any—choline. Some evidence indicates that lower choline levels are associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects.

Adequate maternal dietary intake of iodine during pregnancy is essential for maternal thyroxine production and for thyroid function in the fetus. If iodine insufficiency leads to inadequate production of thyroid hormones and hypothyroidism during pregnancy, then irreversible fetal brain damage can result. The American Thyroid Association recommends all prenatal vitamins contain 150 mcg of iodine, and ours complies with that recommendation.

Formulated with TRAACS® zinc bisglycinate chelate by Albion® Laboratories, Inc. Zinc bisglycinate is superior to other forms of zinc because it is highly bioavailable and easily absorbed. 

Zinc helps the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses. The body needs zinc to make proteins and DNA, the genetic material in all cells. During pregnancy, the body needs zinc to grow and develop properly.

While most prenatals use vitamin D sourced from lambs’ wool, our vitamin D is carefully extracted from lichen to provide a readily absorbable form of vegan vitamin D3. Vitamin D may reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia, low birthweight, and preterm birth, although more research is warranted.

B Vitamins—collectively referred to as the vitamin B complex—are a critical component of prenatal nutrition. Our prenatal is packed with the recommended vitamin Bs, including B1, B2, B3, B6, B7 (biotin), B12, and B9 (folate).

For vitamin K2, we use MenaQ7®, the first and most clinically validated form of vitamin K2 (as menaquinone-7). Vitamin K2 helps the body properly utilize calcium to build healthy bone tissue.

Along with 88% of polled scientists, Natalist believes that the majority of genetically modified (GM) foods are safe. That said, we also believe that bioengineered ingredients should be clearly labeled so that consumers can make an informed purchase decision. Transparency is essential in building trust between brands and consumers. Our products clearly state if they do or do not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

The ideal time to start a prenatal is one to three months before trying to conceive. The main reason for this is due to the large number of unintended pregnancies. A study published in 2016 revealed that a staggering 45% of pregnancies in the US are unplanned. The window during which folate supplementation is most important is in the first 21 to 28 days after conception, which is way before many of these pregnancies are recognized.

A Harvard study led by Dr. Audrey Gaskins evaluated the relationship between pretreatment adherence to various dietary patterns and outcomes of fertility treatments across 357 women and 608 cycles, like IVF. The study found that adherence to a pro-fertility diet was associated with an increased probability of live birth. The pro-fertility diet was developed based on factors previously related to outcomes and included higher intake of supplemental folic acid (folate), vitamin B12, vitamin D, low (rather than high) pesticide residue produce, whole grains, dairy, soy foods, and seafood (rather than other meats). We recommend combining adequate prenatal supplementation with a well-rounded, healthy diet for the best fertility outcomes.

The Prenatal Daily Packets formula intentionally includes nutrients found in the pro-fertility diet: folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. In fact, it contains levels of folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin D that meet or exceed the levels shown to support positive fertility outcomes in this particular study.

Bioavailable MTHF folate: 1330 mcg DFE

Prenatal Daily Packets uses MTHF folate (not synthetic folic acid), the highest bioavailable folate available for dietary supplements. Folate helps form the neural tube and can help prevent some major birth defects of the baby’s brain (anencephaly) and spine (spina bifida).

Vegan DHA: 450 mg

Derived from wild-sourced marine algae and purified to remove heavy metals. DHA supports early cognitive and motor developmental milestones and the formation of a healthy brain and eyes.

Choline: 150 mg

Most prenatal pills lack choline. But growing evidence of its benefits shows choline improves several pregnancy outcomes and protects against certain neural and metabolic disorders.

Gentle, bioavailable iron: 27 mg

Made with Ferrochel® iron, which is shown to be easily absorbed, causing fewer side effects and less likely to block the absorption of vitamin E and calcium. Iron is critical for building new red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout your body and to a growing baby.

Absorbable calcium: 200 mg

Our prenatal supplement uses calcium citrate, which is more easily absorbed than calcium carbonate and less likely to cause side effects like gas, bloating, or constipation. Calcium is in high demand for pregnant women because it prepares your body to grow new teeth and bones.

Bioavailable magnesium: 50 mg

Natalist Prenatal Daily Packets use magnesium malate, a highly bioavailable form of magnesium. Magnesium supplementation during pregnancy may help reduce chances of preeclampsia and increase birth weight.

High potency iodine: 150 mcg

Iodine is a necessary element for the production of thyroid hormone. The American Thyroid Association recommends all prenatal pills contain 150 mcg of iodine, and ours complies with that recommendation.

Vegan vitamin D3: 50 mcg

While most prenatal vitamin supplements use vitamin D sourced from lambs’ wool, the vitamin D in Prenatal Daily Packets is carefully extracted from lichen to provide a readily absorbable form of vegan vitamin D3. According to WHO, Vitamin D may reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia, low birthweight, and preterm birth, although more research is warranted.

Nature-identical biotin: 100 mcg

A substantial proportion of pregnant women are marginally biotin deficient, although symptomatic biotin deficiency is rare. Prenatal Daily Packets are packed with 100 mcg of nature-identical biotin to meet the adequate intake recommendations during pregnancy.

Chelated zinc: 3.9 mg

Formulated with TRAACS® zinc bisglycinate chelate by Albion® Laboratories, Inc. Zinc bisglycinate is superior to other forms of zinc because it is highly bioavailable and easily absorbed. 

Zinc helps the immune system fight off invading bacteria and viruses. The body needs zinc to make proteins and DNA, the genetic material in all cells. And during pregnancy, the body needs zinc to grow and develop properly.

Brunst KJ, Wright RO, DiGioia K, Enlow MB, Fernandez H, Wright RJ, Kannan S. Racial/ethnic and sociodemographic factors associated with micronutrient intakes and inadequacies among pregnant women in an urban US population. Public Health Nutr. 2014 Sep;17(9):1960-70. doi: 10.1017/S1368980013003224. Epub 2013 Dec 13. PMID: 24476840; PMCID: PMC4071127.

Caudill MA. Pre- and postnatal health: evidence of increased choline needs. J Am Diet Assoc. 2010 Aug;110(8):1198-206. doi: 10.1016/j.jada.2010.05.009. PMID: 20656095.

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Makrides, M., Crosby, D. D., Bain, E., & Crowther, C. A. (2014). Magnesium supplementation in pregnancy. The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, 2014(4), CD000937. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD000937.pub2

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Zhang, Zhiying, Victor L. Fulgoni, Penny M. Kris-Etherton, and Susan Hazels Mitmesser. 2018. “Dietary Intakes of EPA and DHA Omega-3 Fatty Acids among US Childbearing-Age and Pregnant Women: An Analysis of NHANES 2001-2014.” Nutrients 10 (4).

Accidental overdose of iron-containing products is a leading cause of fatal poisoning in children under 6. Keep this product out of reach of children. In case of accidental overdose, call a doctor or poison control center immediately.