Natasha Berman-Carter is a naturopath and medical herbalist, and is the managing director of Quintessence, a natural health dispensary in Titirangi Village, Waitakere. Natasha is a mum of one child and is passionate about children's health and wellbeing. Visit
www.qhealth.co.nz to find free information and advice, and to buy natural health products online.
Current Question
Beta Carotene in pregnancy
I have had conflicting advice regarding the safety of an iron supplement from my GP and naturopath, and I am confused!
I am a vegetarian and 15 weeks pregnant. For many months pre-conception, I was taking an iron supplement I really liked - Ethical Nutrients 'Iron Plus' which as well as 20mg of Iron equivalent, Vit C, Folic Acid & Vit B12, contains 5mg Beta Carotene.
At my first pregnancy check up my GP advised I discontinue use as she noticed the Beta Carotene and said that Vit A can be harmful for baby.
So, I have not been taking any iron, and am still feeling very tired at 15 weeks.
I went back to my naturopath who recommended the Iron Plus pre-pregnancy and she said that Beta Carotene was not the same thing as Vit A and was safe in pregnancy.
The bottle notes it is suitable for use in pregnancy. Who is right?
I'd like to take the product if I can, as I have found it more effective that taking Ferrograd or similar.
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