Folate is critical for fetal development: neural tube formation, DNA and RNA methylation, regulation of homocysteine levels, and brain development. Betaine and folate can be used interchangeably in the methylation pathway. Studies indicate that folic acid supplementation during pregnancy decreases the risk of neural tube defects, congenital heart defects, preterm birth, and low birth weight.

Choline and phosphatidylcholine are critical during pregnancy for cell membrane development, DNA formation, neurotransmitter production, and brain growth and function. Maternal deficiencies in pregnancy are linked to lower cognitive function in offspring that cannot be made up for in later life.

Betaine is a one-carbon nutrient that can be made from choline and provided from dietary sources. It is primarily used for DNA and RNA methylation, as well as homocysteine regulation and cellular energy production. Betaine and folate can be used interchangeably in the methylation pathway.

Vitamin D is essential for fetal cognitive development and supports the formation of bones and teeth by aiding in calcium absorption. For moms, vitamin D promotes bone health, mood, and energy levels.

Calcium is essential for the formation of bones and teeth. It also plays key roles in muscle and nerve function and influences hormone levels. Adequate maternal calcium intake during pregnancy can reduce the risk of preeclampsia.

Vitamin B12 plays roles in folate metabolism, DNA synthesis and methylation, protein and fat metabolism, regulation of homocysteine levels, and red blood cell production. Infants born to mothers with B12 deficiency have an increased risk of neural tube defects.

Iron is an essential mineral for red blood cell production. It also supports cell development and growth of the nervous system. Iron deficieny can cause fatigue and weakness.

Vitamin B6 is critical for normal brain and nervous system development, immune function, and protein metabolism. During pregnancy, supplemental B6 can also reduce symptoms of morning sickness.

Vitamin C is a key antioxidant needed for immune function, protein synthesis, collagen production, and formation of neurotransmitters. It is also an essential nutrient, meaning that humans cannot synthesize it and must obtain it from food or supplements.

Vitamin A is critical for development and function of the brain and eyes, immune function, and differentiation of tissues and organ synthesis during fetal development.

Biotin, a B vitamin, is required for metabolism of carbohydrates, fat, and protein. It's also necessary for gene regulation and communication between cells.

Pantothenic acid is a B vitamin that helps synthesize proteins that function in fat metabolism.

Vitamin K influences blood clotting and produces proteins that support bone development and muscle health.

Riboflavin is a B vitamin involved in cell growth, energy production, clearance of drugs and toxins, and the formation of muscles, nerves, and bones. It also plays instrumental roles in folate and B6 metabolism. Riboflavin may also support a healthy birth weight and lower the risk of preeclampsia.

Niacin is also known as vitamin B3. It is required to make NAD, which helps catalyze over 400 reactions in the body. These include the transfer of energy from foods to ATP, the main energy sources in cells. Niacin also helps to synthesize cholesterol and fats, support gene expression and cellular communication, and catalyze antioxidant reactions.

Thiamin, vitamin B1, is needed for cell growth and develpment, as well as many metabolic reactions throughout the body.

Iodine is a trace element essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which play fundamental roles in metabolism, protein synthesis, and development of the fetal and neonatal brain and nervous system. 

Magnesium is a mineral required for over 300 enzymes in the body, including those needed for nerve and muscle function, protein formation, and the regulation of blood pressure and blood sugar. In pregnancy, magnesium is critical for the synthesis of DNA and RNA, as well as bone growth and energy production.

Zinc is important for many processes in the body, including immune function, synthesis of DNA and proteins, enzyme activity in hundreds of cellular reactions, and wound healing.

Copper is a mineral involved in iron metabolism, brain function, immune function, gene expression, skin and hair pigmentation, and hormone regulation.

Vitamin E is an important antioxidant and also supports immune function, gene expression, and cell signaling.

A well-balanced gut microbiome has been shown to influence pregnancy outcomes, immune function, and gut health for both mom and baby. Probiotics can help establish and maintain helpful gut bacteria and support bowel regularity.