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Pregnancy Vitamins to Avoid: What Every Mom Should Know

Pregnancy Vitamins to Avoid

When you’re pregnant—or trying to conceive—every decision feels high-stakes.

prenatal vitamins

What you eat, what you breathe, and especially what supplements you take can impact your baby’s development.

But here’s what most women don’t realize:

Not all vitamins marketed for pregnancy are safe.
Some may even do more harm than good.

At Ask Dr Olz, we believe in empowering women with accurate, functional medicine-based guidance—especially during this sacred season of life.

MamaPlus, metagenics pregnancy, plusone, metagenics south africa

Let’s talk about which pregnancy vitamins to avoid, and why we recommend MamaPlus® as a trusted, practitioner-approved option.

Pregnancy Vitamins to Avoid

Here are the most common problematic ingredients and practices found in over-the-counter pregnancy supplements:

1. Excessive Vitamin A (Retinol)

High doses of preformed vitamin A (retinol) have been associated with birth defects. While beta-carotene is safe, synthetic or high-dose retinol should be avoided.

2. Unregulated Herbal Blends

Some “natural” supplements contain herbs like black cohosh, dong quai, or yohimbe—all of which can interfere with pregnancy hormones or uterine contractions.

3. Poor-Quality Folate (Folic Acid)

Many prenatal supplements use folic acid instead of methylated folate, which is better absorbed and safer for women with MTHFR gene variations.

4. Unknown Source or Doses of Iron

Too much iron—or iron from poorly absorbed forms—can cause oxidative stress or GI distress during pregnancy.

5. Supplements Without Medical Oversight

Just because it’s sold in a pharmacy doesn’t mean it’s safe. The supplement industry is loosely regulated, and many formulas lack the clinical research needed to ensure safety during pregnancy and nursing.

A Safer, Smarter Choice: MamaPlus®

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, nutrient-dense supplement that supports you before, during, and after pregnancy, MamaPlus® is a gentle and effective option.

Why We Recommend It:

  • Formulated for the full journey: Preconception, pregnancy, and nursing
  • Includes essential micronutrients for baby’s brain, bones, and development
  • Supports the mother’s energy, immunity, and recovery
  • Backed by Metagenics—a trusted name in functional medicine

“I love that MamaPlus® isn’t just a prenatal—it’s designed to carry me through my entire journey as a mom.” – Ask Dr Olz patient

A Word of Caution

While MamaPlus® contains high-quality nutrients, it’s important to note:

DISCLAIMER: Unless otherwise stated, the safety of Metagenics products during pregnancy and lactation has not been established. If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking any medications, please consult your healthcare professional before using any supplement to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs.

Our Approach at Ask Dr Olz

We know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right prenatal. That’s why we:

  • Offer personalised supplement guidance
  • Stock only practitioner-trusted products
  • Provide ongoing support throughout your motherhood journey

Support You Deserve. Nutrients You Can Trust.

If you’re planning, pregnant, or nursing, your body deserves more than guesswork. Choose a supplement that’s rooted in functional medicine—and guided by someone who walks with you every step of the way.

👉 Explore MamaPlus®
👉 Book a 1-on-1 supplement consult with Dr Olz
👉 Enjoy FREE shipping on orders over R750 anywhere in South Africa

Maximize Your Metagenics Supplements – Get Expert Tips


Picture of Dr. Olwethu Sotondoshe
Dr. Olwethu Sotondoshe

My mission is to empower individuals to achieve optimal health through holistic and integrative care. We are committed to providing personalized telehealth consultations and premium wellness products that support and enhance your well-being.

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