Experts concerned Australians may be using unnecessary prenatal supplements

Australian health experts are expressing concern that social media influencers are promoting unnecessary prenatal supplements to expectant parents, potentially causing harm despite their ineffectiveness. Australia's pregnancy care guidelines recommend daily folic acid, iodine, and iron supplements for most pregnant individuals, but health professionals are alarmed by the presence of additional, unneeded supplements marketed via social media.

Shelley Wilkinson, a prenatal dietitian and obstetric medicine researcher at the University of Queensland, noted that taking multiple supplements without medical necessity is a waste of money and can pose risks. Australia's guidelines suggest folic acid intake of 400-600 micrograms per day, iodine 150 micrograms, and iron between 60-200 micrograms, with some newer draft recommendations for iron still pending official approval.

Health experts warn against high-dose vitamin A, C, or E supplements, as they offer little benefit and may harm the mother or baby. Omega-3, creatine, and collagen supplements are also not routinely recommended but are promoted by influencers. A 2023 study found that 90% of Australian women using supplements took multivitamins, often exceeding recommended B6 limits, which can cause nerve damage.

Experts advise pregnant women to consult their doctor before taking prenatal multivitamins to avoid potential negative outcomes like gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and preterm birth. Researchers are now attempting to identify the types of supplements Australians are using and the sources of their recommendations, with hopes of creating educational materials for doctors to better advise their patients.