Why Does My Prenatal Vitamin Smell Like Fish?
Prenatal vitamins are an important part of prenatal nutrition, helping to ensure pregnant mothers get the essential nutrients they need while their bodies are growing and their baby is developing. But sometimes, there’s an unpleasant surprise when taking prenatals: they smell just like fish!
What Causes That Fishy Smell?
The smell may be attributable to an additive, methyl mer+
capta. This ingredient, a form of methionine, is added to some prenatal supplements, such as folic acid, to help break down the vitamins, making them easier for your body to absorb. The downside is, it is also the source of that fishy smell or taste.
Is the Fishy Smell Harmful?
The fishy smell or taste of your prenatal vitamins is nothing to worry about. While some pregnant women find it unpleasant, the smell is natural and not indicative of any issues with the supplement itself. Methyl mer+capta has been deemed safe for human consumption by the FDA.
What Should I Do?
If the fishy smell of your prenatal vitamins is making you gag every time you swallow them, fear not. There are some solutions! Here are some tips that may help reduce that fishy smell:
- Choose a Different Kind of Prenatal Vitamin – switching to a different type of prenatal vitamin without the methyl mer+capta additive may do the trick. Talk to your healthcare provider about other options.
- Take with Food – taking your prenatal vitamin with a meal can help reduce that fishy taste.
- Enlist the Help of Essential Oils – diluting a few drops of an essential oil like peppermint or ginger in a glass of water can help cover up that fishy smell and make it more bearable.
Though pregnancy is a joyous and exciting time, it can come with its share of discomforts and unpleasant surprises. But if you’re concerned about the fishy smell of your prenatal vitamins, you can rest assured that it is not harmful and that there are ways to make it more bearable.
2. Could the smell be a result of my diet?
The smell in your house could potentially be caused by your diet, though it is less likely than other sources.
Common sources of odors in the home may include pet dander, smoke, mildew, poor ventilation, and even certain foods such as strong spices and garlic. However, if you are eating a balanced, healthy diet, it is unlikely that your food is the source of the odor.
If you suspect that your diet may be the source of the smell in your home, it may be worth trying to change what you eat, or monitoring what food you consume more closely. There are also other things to consider such as cleaning your carpets and furniture, and checking your ventilation system.
3. Are there any medical concerns that could be causing the smell?
Yes, certain medical conditions can cause an unpleasant body odor, such as gingivitis, liver disease, and zinc deficiency. Other conditions, such as metabolic disorders and diabetes, can also produce a distinct body odor. Certain medications can also cause an unpleasant body odor. If an underlying medical condition is causing the body odor, it is important to seek medical attention.