The Top 10 Best Postnatal Vitamins of 2023
Last Updated on October 23, 2023 by Avi Steen
Are you a new mom looking for ways to support your postpartum recovery, lactation, and overall health? The best postnatal vitamins are specifically designed to provide you with essential nutrients during this important phase of life.
As a nurse and mom who’s been through the postnatal period three times, I’m here to help.
Let’s dive into the world of postnatal vitamins and discover the best options available, how they differ from prenatal vitamins, and the key nutrients you need to thrive during your postpartum journey.
This post may include affiliate links in which I receive a small commission at no cost to you. Please see our full disclosure here.
Our Top 10 Postnatal Vitamin Picks
Finding the best postnatal vitamin doesn’t have to be hard, mama. Allow me to guide you. Based on our research, the top 10 postnatal vitamins are:
- ACTIF Postnatal Vitamin
- Nature-Made Postnatal Vitamins
- The Ritual Postnatal
- Milkies Nursing Vitamin
- Pink Stork Total Postnatal Vitamin
- Pink Stork Postpartum Mood Support Vitamin
- MegaFood Baby & Me 2 Postnatal Vitamins
- Mary Ruth’s Prenatal and Postnatal Liquid Vitamin
- New Chapter Perfect Postnatal Multivitamin
- Nordic Naturals Postnatal Omega-3
These postnatal vitamins cater to our various needs as breastfeeding moms, non-breastfeeding moms, and those with specific dietary preferences.
They also include essential vitamins and minerals for postpartum recovery. Some options also focus on lactation support and mood regulation, making them perfect for combating all the postpartum feels.
Keep in mind the extra nutrients necessary for breastfeeding when choosing a postnatal vitamin. These include:
- Calcium
- Zinc
- Magnesium
- Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, D
- DHA
Also, be mindful of the product’s storage conditions; exposure to heat or sunlight might compromise its quality. If you’re on medication or have a blood clotting issue, consult your doctor before using any postnatal vitamin during your postpartum period.
Understanding Postnatal Vitamins
Postnatal vitamins, also known as postnatal supplements, are tailored to meet the unique needs of mothers who have recently given birth.
They provide essential nutrients, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, B vitamins, and zinc, to help with postpartum recovery and breastfeeding support. And if you’re like me, including a postnatal supplement in your daily routine can be helpful for postpartum hair shedding and health.
Whether you’re struggling to maintain a healthy diet, prone to vitamin deficiencies, or simply want to stay healthy after having a baby, postnatal vitamins can help fill in any nutritional gaps.
Key Nutrients for Postnatal Health
To keep both you and your little one in top shape after giving birth, it’s all about getting the right stuff into your system. So, here’s the lowdown on what to keep an eye out for in those post-baby vitamins:
- Iron: Supports the production of red blood cells and helps prevent anemia.
- Choline: Essential for brain development and nervous system function in both mother and baby.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support brain health, mental health, and reduce inflammation.
- Folate: Crucial for DNA synthesis and cell division, helping with tissue growth and repair.
- Iodine: Essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and energy levels.
- Vitamin D: Helps maintain optimal vitamin D levels in breast milk and promotes calcium absorption for strong bones.
- Vitamin B12: Supports red blood cell formation and aids in the production of energy from food.
So, grab a post-baby vitamin with these gems, and you’ll be on your way to staying nourished and warding off those nutrient gaps during your post-birth adventure. Pop one in daily and watch your health soar!
Comparing Prenatal and Postnatal Vitamins
While both prenatal and postnatal vitamins are important during different stages of motherhood, it’s important to understand their distinct purposes and nutrient compositions.
Prenatal vitamins are designed to support the health of both mother and baby during pregnancy, with a focus on the baby’s growth and development.
On the other hand, postnatal vitamins are tailored to help with postpartum recovery and breastfeeding, ensuring that both mother and baby receive the necessary nutrients during the postnatal period.
So, when it comes to choosing between prenatal or postnatal vitamins, it’s crucial to consider the specific needs of each stage.
How to Choose the Right Postnatal Vitamin
The wide range of postnatal vitamins on the market can make it difficult to determine the one that best suits your needs. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the right postnatal vitamin:
- Nutrient Composition: Look for a postnatal vitamin that contains essential nutrients like vitamin D and other important elements like folic acid to support your postpartum health and breastfeeding journey.
- Absorption: Choose a postnatal vitamin with superior absorption to ensure your body can effectively utilize the nutrients it contains.
- Allergens: Be mindful of any potential allergens or sensitivities in the product, especially if you have a history of allergies or intolerances.
Additionally, when looking for postnatal vitamins, consider the following:
- Choose vitamins that have been third-party tested to ensure quality and safety.
- Look for vitamins that can affect breast milk quality for breastfeeding moms.
- Read customer reviews to gain insights into the effectiveness and overall satisfaction with a particular postnatal vitamin.
Benefits of Postnatal Vitamins
Adding postnatal vitamins to your daily routine can provide numerous benefits for both you and your baby. Some of the advantages include:
- Replenishing essential nutrients: Postnatal vitamins help restore vitamins and minerals lost during pregnancy and childbirth, ensuring that your body has the resources it needs for optimal health.
- Supporting breastfeeding: Many postnatal vitamins contain nutrients that can aid in lactation and milk supply, making them ideal for breastfeeding moms.
- Aiding postpartum recovery: Postnatal vitamins can help support your body’s healing process and overall well-being during the postpartum period.
Additional benefits of postnatal vitamins include boosting energy levels, improving mood, and supporting immune function, which can be particularly helpful in managing postpartum depression and maintaining overall health during this demanding time.
Postnatal Vitamins for Special Diets
For those with particular dietary needs or preferences, choosing a postnatal vitamin that aligns with your lifestyle is crucial. Fortunately, there are several options available:
- Vegan Postnatal Vitamins: These vitamins are free from animal-derived ingredients and are suitable for those following a vegan diet. Look for options that contain adequate levels of vitamin B12, as this nutrient is typically found in animal products.
- Gluten-Free Postnatal Vitamins: If you have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, opt for a postnatal vitamin that is gluten-free to avoid any potential adverse reactions.
- Allergen-Free Postnatal Vitamins: For individuals with allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients, allergen-free postnatal vitamins can provide the necessary nutrients without causing discomfort.
By selecting a postnatal vitamin that caters to your unique dietary needs, you can ensure that you receive the essential nutrients required for your postpartum health and well-being.
Boosting Milk Supply with Postnatal Supplements
An adequate milk supply is often a top priority for breastfeeding mothers. Postnatal vitamins and supplements can help support lactation and boost milk supply so that your baby receives all the nutrition they need.
Some postnatal supplements specifically designed for this purpose may contain ingredients like fenugreek, fennel seed, and other lactation-supporting herbs.
Adding postnatal vitamins and supplements with a focus on lactation support to your daily regimen can help both you and your baby get the required nutrients.
Addressing Postpartum Hair Loss with Postnatal Vitamins
Many women find postpartum hair loss, a common side effect of childbirth, distressing.
Thankfully, certain postnatal vitamins can help minimize hair loss by providing essential nutrients like vitamin B and biotin. These vitamins contribute to the production of keratin, a protein essential for hair growth, and help manage stress, which can be a contributing factor in hair loss.
Adding postnatal vitamins with hair-protective nutrients to your postpartum regimen can promote healthy hair growth and possibly lessen the severity of postpartum hair loss.
Wrapping Up
The best postnatal vitamins support the health and well-being of new mothers and their babies. By selecting a postnatal vitamin that meets your specific needs, you can ensure optimal postpartum recovery, lactation support, and overall health during this crucial time.
Remember, a healthy mom means a healthy baby, so prioritize your well-being and make postnatal vitamins an essential part of your postpartum journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best vitamins to take after pregnancy?
Choosing the right vitamins to take after pregnancy is key for recovery and general well-being. Popular postnatal supplements typically contain a variety of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients such as omega-3s, folate, choline, iron, selenium, and vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, B12, and D.
Do you need to take postnatal vitamins while breastfeeding?
It is recommended that breastfeeding women continue to take either a pre or postnatal vitamin, as this can help support milk quality and baby’s brain development. Vitamins such as folate, DHA, Vitamin D and iodine can be especially beneficial for milk quality and baby’s health.
What are the best postnatal vitamins if you re not breastfeeding?
If you’re not breastfeeding, the best postnatal vitamins to choose are those that are rich in calcium, vitamin B6, folate, iron and vitamin D, such as the MamaBird Postnatal Vitamin by Best Nest Wellness which also has probiotics and digestive enzymes to aid in recovery.
Can postnatal vitamins help with postpartum depression?
Postnatal vitamins may be beneficial in helping with postpartum depression due to their mood-regulating nutrients.
How long should I take postnatal vitamins after giving birth?
It’s generally recommended to take postnatal vitamins for at least six months after giving birth – check with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Octavia Steen is an NBDA certified fertility doula, health coach, certified fitness nutrition specialist, aspiring missionary with the COGIC, and owner of Mother Mindset. She helps future and current mamas become more consistent in faith + fitness and grow closer to God so they can create a healthier lifestyle from the inside out!
