Can I drink vitamin water while pregnant?

Can I drink vitamin water while pregnant?

Most vitamin water products are safe to drink during pregnancy in moderation. The main things to pay attention to are the added sugar, potential caffeine, and the vitamin content that could overlap with your prenatal. 

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What's actually in vitamin water?

A standard 20-ounce bottle of regular vitamin water contains about 120 calories, 32 grams of sugar, and modest amounts of various vitamins, typically B vitamins, vitamin C, and sometimes electrolytes. The "Zero" versions use artificial sweeteners or erythritol and contain no calories, however, we don’t recommend consuming them due to their negative impact on the gut microbiome. 

Concerns during pregnancy

Sugar content. The sugar in regular vitamin water is comparable to soda. Excess sugar intake during pregnancy is associated with gestational diabetes, excessive weight gain, and other complications. 

Nutrient overlap. If you're already taking a prenatal vitamin that provides your daily needs for B vitamins and vitamin C, adding vitamin water on top could push your intake above recommended levels. Water-soluble vitamins are generally excreted when consumed in excess.

Caffeine. Some vitamin water varieties contain caffeine. During pregnancy, caffeine intake should generally stay below 200 mg per day. Check labels for caffeine content.

Better hydration options

Plain water is the best way to stay hydrated during pregnancy. If plain water feels boring, try adding fresh fruit, cucumber, or a splash of lemon. The general recommendation is about 8-12 cups (64-96 ounces) of fluids daily during pregnancy, increasing if you're active or in a hot climate.

An occasional vitamin water isn't going to cause harm. Making it your primary hydration source isn't ideal, primarily because of the sugar in regular versions or simply because you don't need the extra vitamins.

A note from WeNatal on hydration and prenatal nutrition

Vitamin waters cannot replace a prenatal vitamin. It provides small, inconsistent amounts of a limited range of nutrients and doesn't contain folate, iron, DHA, iodine, or choline. WeNatal for Her provides comprehensive nutrient coverage in three capsules per day, and pairing it with adequate water intake keeps both absorption and hydration on track.

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