How to Choose Vitamins for Women

Choose vitamins for women by taking into consideration their special needs in pregnancy, disease prevention and aging. Folic acid, B vitamins and antioxidants are necessary to keep women in optimal shape during her childbearing years and also in preventing diseases.

• Take folic acid. Folic acid is especially important for lowering the risks of birth defects in pregnant women. Inadequate folic acid levels are associated with diets are poor in nutrition. Foods that contain folic acid include spinach, organ meats and strawberries. Oral contraceptives, excessive cigarette smoking and alcohol abuse can deplete the body of adequate levels.


• Take vitamin B12. B vitamins, in general, are essential for women's health. This is especially true during childbearing years. B vitamins aid functioning of the brain, in the formation of red blood cells and in building DNA. Vitamin B12 assists with proper metabolism, synthesis of protein and the division of cells. Taking B12 as a supplement is especially important for women who eat a vegetarian or vegan diet. Foods containing B12 are eggs, fish, meat, yogurt and cheese. Taking a B12 supplement can also help prevent anemia.


• Supplement with vitamin B6. A B6 deficiency can lead to anemia. It's best to eat nutritious foods like oatmeal, avocadoes, bananas, seeds and cereal. If a deficiency is detected, check with a doctor for the proper amount of vitamin B6 supplementation. Too much vitamin B6 can lead to toxicity.


• Take antioxidant vitamins. This is important for everyone, not just women. Vitamins A, C and E help to prevent the damaging effects of free radicals. Antioxidants also slow down the aging process and keep women looking youthful.