Every mom-to-be wants the same thing: to give her baby the best possible start in life. But here’s the truth many women don’t hear: the prenatal vitamins you’re relying on may not be giving you the support you and your baby really need.
Too often, women grab the cheapest prenatal off the shelf, thinking it will “cover the basics.” But your body deserves more than the basics, because most women go into pregnancy already running on empty.
Women Enter Pregnancy Already Low in Nutrients
Did you know that nearly 9 out of 10 women around conception have low or borderline levels of folate, B vitamins, or vitamin D? (1) One study found about 38 percent of pregnant women were iron deficient, 22 percent had low folate, and 10 percent had low vitamin B12. (2)
That means your body may already be behind before pregnancy even begins. And once baby is on board, your nutrients aren’t just for you anymore. Your baby pulls what it needs from your stores, and you’re left even more depleted.
Gut Health, Stress, and the Bigger Strain
Even if you eat well, you may not be absorbing enough. Gut issues like food sensitivities, bloating, or a leaky gut reduce how much nutrition you actually take in. Stress, poor sleep, and busy life demands make things worse.
This matters more than many realize. A stressed, inflamed gut means fewer nutrients reach you and your baby. It’s not just about eating perfectly it’s about whether your body can actually use the fuel you give it.
What Comes After Baby: Postpartum Struggles
Postpartum can be one of the hardest times for mothers. About 1 in 5 women will experience postpartum depression in the first 6 months after birth (Frontiers in Psychiatry, JAMA Network Open).
It isn’t just hormones. Low levels of folate, vitamin B12, iron, and vitamin D are directly tied to mood, brain chemistry, and energy. When your tank is empty, it’s harder to heal, harder to cope, and harder to feel like yourself again.
The Problem With Generic Prenatals Like Materna
The most common prenatal in Canada is Materna. It’s easy to grab, but it falls short in ways that really matter:
Synthetic folic acid instead of methylated folate
Missing choline, a critical nutrient for brain development
No DHA (omega-3 for baby’s brain and vision)
Low-quality minerals that can cause stomach upset
Fillers and additives that don’t belong in a prenatal
Cheap prenatals aren’t a bargain when your body can’t absorb what’s inside.
A Better Choice: The Wellness Essentials Pregnancy Pack
This is why I recommend the Wellness Essentials Pregnancy Pack. It’s professional-grade, clinically designed, and covers the real needs of both mom and baby.
Here’s how it compares:
Compare the 2
Investing in Your Health and Your Baby’s
This isn’t about luxury. It’s about giving your baby the best foundation possible and making sure you have the energy, mood, and nutrients to thrive through pregnancy and beyond.
Your baby will take what it needs from you, but who is refilling your tank?
Choosing a higher-quality prenatal is one of the most important investments you can make.
Your Next Step
If you’re ready to move beyond “good enough,” here are your options:
Order the Pregnancy Support Pack today
Book a free consultation to review your supplement strategy with me
Stay tuned for my upcoming Pregnancy & Postpartum Nutrition Guide
You don’t have to guess your way through this. The right support is here for you.
About the Author
Written by Mark Kibyuk, Naturopath and founder of MK Natural Health Services. Mark helps women and families find root-cause solutions through functional nutrition, professional-grade supplements, and compassionate support both online and in person in Newfoundland, Canada.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Do not stop or change any prescribed medications without speaking with your healthcare provider.
