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Prenatal

Carlson
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(142 ratings)
Iron 27 mg
Vitamin K 200 mcg
Copper 2 mg
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Score 90

This prenatal delivers a wide range of essential nutrients, including beneficial fish oil, but its high Vitamin A content and relatively low calcium amount are important considerations.

How scoring works
scaleQuantity:60 Softgel(s) • (30 servings)
track_changesGoals:
flag Cardiovascular Support
flag Energy
flag General Health
flag Immunity
flag Hair Health
flag Nail Health
flag Skin Health
flag Bone Health

leaderboard Score 90

This prenatal delivers a wide range of essential nutrients, including beneficial fish oil, but its high Vitamin A content and relatively low calcium amount are important considerations.

How scoring works
$24.06($0.80 per serving)
iHerb
$ 24.06
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psychologyAnalysis

The Carlson Prenatal is a comprehensive supplement designed to support nutritional needs during pregnancy, providing a wide array of vitamins and minerals. It notably includes a well-absorbed form of iron (Iron Bisglycinate Chelate), sufficient iodine, and a complete B-vitamin complex, which are all vital for energy, red blood cell formation, and overall fetal development.

A significant advantage of this product is the inclusion of 1.00 gram of Norwegian Fish Oil concentrate, which typically supplies crucial DHA and EPA. These omega-3 fatty acids are important for supporting the developing fetal brain and eyes, a feature often found in separate supplements rather than integrated into a prenatal multivitamin. The softgel format can also be a practical benefit for those who find larger tablets challenging to swallow.

However, a key point of consideration is the product's high total Vitamin A content, combining both beta-carotene and Vitamin A palmitate to reach 4800 mcg RAE. While beta-carotene is generally safe, the amount of preformed Vitamin A (palmitate) is substantial and warrants attention. Additionally, the calcium provided is a modest 100mg, which is on the lower end for prenatal recommendations, and the magnesium is delivered as magnesium oxide, a form that may not offer optimal absorption.

thumb_upPros
  • Includes a good dose of Norwegian Fish Oil, providing DHA/EPA for fetal development.
  • Contains a well-tolerated and effective form of iron (Bisglycinate Chelate).
  • Provides a comprehensive blend of B vitamins, iodine, and selenium for broad support.
  • Softgel form may be easier to swallow for some users.
  • Good transparency in listing individual ingredient quantities and forms.
thumb_downCons
  • Very high total Vitamin A, with a significant portion from Vitamin A Palmitate, which can be a concern during pregnancy.
  • Calcium content is relatively low for a prenatal supplement, often requiring additional supplementation or dietary intake.
  • Magnesium is provided as Magnesium Oxide, which is generally considered less bioavailable.
  • The specific form of folate is not identified as an active methylfolate, which some individuals may prefer.
warningWarnings
  • Individuals should check with a healthcare professional regarding the high Vitamin A content, especially if also consuming other Vitamin A-rich foods or supplements.
  • Those with specific dietary needs or conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use, particularly concerning calcium and magnesium intake.
  • If you have difficulty swallowing softgels, consider alternative forms or brands.
scienceNutrient quality
65 High impact

The nutrient quality is mixed; while it uses good forms for iron and Vitamin D, the high Vitamin A palmitate and less bioavailable magnesium oxide reduce the overall score. The folate form could also be improved.

visibilityIngredient transparency
85 Highest impact

The product provides a clear and detailed list of all ingredients, including specific forms and quantities for each nutrient. This level of detail helps consumers understand exactly what they are getting.

workspace_premiumValue for money
70 High impact

Considering the breadth of vitamins, minerals, and the inclusion of fish oil at its price point, this product generally offers good value. However, the specific concerns about Vitamin A and calcium temper this slightly.

thumb_upCustomer satisfaction
70 High impact

With 136 reviews, there's a decent user base, suggesting a level of acceptance. However, without actual review content or average rating, a more precise satisfaction score isn't possible, but indicates some positive reception.

storefrontBrand
60 Moderate impact

While 'Carlson' is a recognized name in supplements, no specific brand details were provided in the input for a deeper analysis. The brand's reputation generally contributes to consumer trust.

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track_changesGoals
flagBrain Health
Impact
Highest effect
With a significant amount of fish oil providing DHA/EPA, along with folate and B12, this product offers good support for fetal brain development and maternal cognitive function.
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flagCognitive Support
Impact
Highest effect
The inclusion of fish oil (DHA/EPA), along with B vitamins and folate, can contribute to cognitive function. These nutrients are important for nerve health and brain processes.
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flagEnergy
Impact
Highest effect
The comprehensive B-vitamin complex, along with iron, are crucial for energy production and combating fatigue. These nutrients are central to metabolic processes that provide sustained energy.
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flagCardiovascular Support
Impact
Highest effect
The fish oil content, providing omega-3 fatty acids, is a significant contributor to cardiovascular health. B vitamins also play a role in supporting healthy homocysteine levels, which is important for heart function.
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flagGeneral Health
Impact
High effect
This product supports general health by supplying a broad spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals. It aims to cover foundational nutritional needs during the demanding period of pregnancy.
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flagImmunity
Impact
High effect
This supplement contains key immunity-supporting nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, zinc, and selenium. These ingredients are important for maintaining a healthy immune response throughout pregnancy.
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flagMood Support
Impact
High effect
B vitamins, particularly folate and B12, along with Vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil, may help support mood balance. These nutrients are involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and overall mental well-being.
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flagHair Health
Impact
High effect
Biotin, zinc, and B vitamins present in this supplement can support hair health. These nutrients play roles in maintaining healthy hair structure and growth.
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scienceIngredients
IngredientAmount per serving
Calories
20 Calorie(s)
Total Fat
1.5 Gram(s)
Total Carbohydrates
1 Gram(s)
Protein
1 Gram(s)
Vitamin A
2400 mcg RAE
Vitamin C
300 mg
Vitamin D
40 mcg
Vitamin E
100.5 mg
Vitamin K1
200 mcg
Thiamine
6.8 mg
Riboflavin
8 mg
Niacin
80 mg
Vitamin B6
10 mg
Folate
1333 mcg DFE
Vitamin B12
32 mcg
Biotin
300 mcg
Pantothenic Acid
40 mg
Calcium
100 mg
Iron
27 mg
Iodine
150 mcg
Magnesium
100 mg
Zinc
15 mg
Selenium
70 mcg
Copper
2 mg
Manganese
2 mg
Chromium
120 mcg
Norwegian Fish Oil concentrate
1 Gram(s)
grain_off Gluten Free free_breakfast Dairy Free pregnant_woman Pregnant female Women 18–50
flagReport overview
Vitamin K 90
This prenatal delivers an impressive 200mcg of Vitamin K1. Vitamin K is important for blood clotting and bone health, and this dose is higher than found in many general multivitamins.
scienceView ingredientinventory_2View products
Iron 90
The 27mg of iron bisglycinate chelate is an excellent inclusion, as this form is highly absorbed and typically gentle on the digestive system, which is crucial during pregnancy.
scienceView ingredientinventory_2View products
Vitamin C 85
The product delivers a robust 300mg of Vitamin C in the calcium ascorbate form, which is well-tolerated. This amount significantly contributes to daily needs and antioxidant support.
scienceView ingredientinventory_2View products
inventory_2Alternative products
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Eve Softgels

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One 'n' Only Prenatal

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This prenatal provides a strong nutrient profile, specifically designed for pregnancy, with a better score than the original and a lower price per serving. It includes 600mcg of Folate (as L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate, a highly bioavailable form), 20mg of Iron (Bis-Glycinate), and 150mcg of Iodine. It also contains various superfood and herbal blends, offering holistic support for general health, energy, and cognitive function during pregnancy, though it doesn't contain added fish oil.
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78 Value

Nursing Postnatal

Fairhaven Health Milkies
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(11199 ratings)
While marketed as a postnatal, this product shares many essential nutrients with prenatals, making it a good value alternative, especially if you're also considering or are currently breastfeeding. It provides an excellent 1360mcg DFE of Folate (as L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate Calcium), 18mg of Iron (Ferrous Fumarate), and 150mcg of Iodine. It supports general health, bone health, and energy for new mothers, at a lower price per serving than the original prenatal, though it does not include fish oil.
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PlusOne

Metagenics
4.9
★★★★★
(64 ratings)
This product stands out as an excellent, comprehensive option that aligns well with the original product's intent by including a significant amount of DHA (1.0g) and EPA (670mg) from fish oil, directly supporting brain and cardiovascular health. It also features a superior form of Folate (1665mcg DFE as Calcium L-5-Methyltetrahydrofolate) for optimal absorption and 30mg of Iron (Ferrous Bis-Glycinate). This option is ideal for those seeking maximal support for general health, cognitive function, and bone health, encompassing high-quality forms of crucial nutrients alongside omega-3s.
Other sellers (2)
88 Performance

Basic Prenatal

Thorne
4.6
★★★★★
(17738 ratings)
This is a highly regarded prenatal choice, offering excellent forms of key nutrients. It contains 1.70mg DFE of Folate (including methylfolate, which is highly bioavailable), a generous 45mg of Iron (Ferrochel), and a good supply of B vitamins in their active forms (Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate for B6, Methylcobalamin for B12). While it doesn't include omega-3s, its focus on easily absorbed and potent forms of vitamins and minerals makes it a strong contender for supporting overall health, bone health, and cognitive function during pregnancy.
Other sellers (4)
88 Performance

Female Multiple

Solgar
4.8
★★★★★
(1299 ratings)
This comprehensive women's multiple vitamin offers a broad spectrum of nutrients with excellent forms for absorption, including 1333mcg DFE of Folate, 18mg of Iron (Bisglycinate), and 150mcg of Iodine. It also provides a robust array of B vitamins, antioxidants like Vitamin C and E, and various chelated minerals. This product is well-suited for women seeking high-quality, broad-spectrum nutritional support for general health, bone health, energy, and immune function, though it does not include omega-3s.
Other sellers (1)
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