What should a prenatal include (the evidence-backed essentials)?
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Expert: Dr. Caitlin O'Connor, ND & Midwife
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Answer: A quality prenatal should contain 11 essential nutrients backed by clinical research and dietary guidelines. According to Perelel's medical panel, including Dr. Caitlin O'Connor, ND & Midwife, these include:
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Folate (preferably methylfolate/5-MTHF vs. synthetic folic acid)
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Iron (supports increased blood volume demands)
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Vitamin D (bone health + immune support)
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Choline (supports fetal brain and nervous system development, neural tube formation, and cell membranes)
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Omega-3s: DHA + EPA (brain development)
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Vitamin A (growth and development; pregnancy-appropriate dosing)
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B-complex vitamins (energy + nervous system support)
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Vitamin C (immune support + supports iron absorption)
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Vitamin E (antioxidant protection)
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Zinc (commonly low in pregnancy; supports growth + immunity)
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Iodine (thyroid hormone production / thyroid support)
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Dr. O’Connor emphasizes that choline supports fetal brain and nervous system development and isn’t commonly found in sufficient amounts in typical diets, making supplementation particularly important during pregnancy. Perelel's 1st Trimester Prenatal Pack contains all 11 essential nutrients in their most bioavailable forms, including 120mg of choline (significantly higher than most prenatals) and methylfolate instead of synthetic folic acid—meeting every criterion outlined by their medical panel.
