Iron in Pregnancy – Here’s How You Can Make It Right

Congratulations, you’re about to become a mother! We’ve collected everything you should know about iron in pregnancy! The importance of iron, how to consume it, which iron supplement doesn’t cause side effects and more.

The happiest moment of your life is here, you’re about to be a mother! So, with all the excitement and preparations, it’s important that you incorporate everything you and your baby need to help you be healthier, like iron supplements in pregnancy, among other things.

Iron in pregnancy is undoubtedly one of the most important components for a healthy pregnancy, yet the information out there might be confusing. We invited you to take a few minutes and learn about the importance of iron, how you should consume it, how you can keep its dosage during pregnancy and are there any side effects from taking them.

Everything you need to know about iron in pregnancy is right here!

Recommended iron dosage in pregnancy – why do you need more iron during pregnancy?

Iron is a common mineral in the body that participates in the red blood cell production, and is vital for producing hemoglobin that, in turn, helps conduct the oxygen to the body’s tissues. Additionally, it is an important component for the functioning of enzymes in all the body’s systems, contributing to keeping the immune system healthy.
There’s an increase in blood volume during pregnancy, around the second trimester. The amount of blood in the body of the pregnant woman increases by about 50%, hence the body needs more iron in order to produce hemoglobin for the additional blood, which carries oxygen to the cells of the body, the fetus and the placenta.

What might happen if hemoglobin is low during pregnancy?

As mentioned, iron dosage in pregnancy is critical and important. Various studies made around the world point to iron deficiency in pregnancy as damaging the fetus’ cognitive development as well as the health of the mother, which could be manifested in fatigue, weariness, lack of energy and more.

Important – iron deficiency anemia is a common phenomenon, mostly in women, which means that many women start their pregnancy with an iron deficit, and if not treated might worsen due to the increase in blood volume. Iron deficiency anemia also has to do with increased risk for premature birth and low birth weight, and these deficits should be filled for a proper pregnancy.

Iron deficiency in pregnancy – the best way to consume iron in pregnancy

Iron can make its way to our body from consuming animal-based foods such as red meat, chicken and fish, as well as plant-based foods, such as legumes – especially lentils – fruits and vegetables. However, consuming iron in a quantity that compensates the increased production during pregnancy is almost impossible and can’t only come from food, which is why there’s a clear instruction by the Ministry of Health to take iron in pregnancy, in order to prevent anemia.

How can you maintain a proper level of iron during pregnancy?

It’s important that you add the right dosage to your body, using iron supplements that will provide the precise dosage that your body needs during pregnancy. Beyond the pregnancy, it’s important to think about what comes after the birth, when you’ll need the most of your strength to take care of the baby, which is why you need balanced levels of iron and completing reserves that your body had used for the pregnancy.

Don’t forget, you need to take care not only of yourself but also your baby!

The issue with consuming iron supplements in pregnancy

Many woman suffer from many natural changes during pregnancy, that “disrupt” their digestive system, like sickness, constipation and stomach aches. If that’s not enough, taking various iron supplements naturally can also have similar side effects that show in constipation, sickness and bad taste in the mouth, which makes many women deter from consuming these supplements.

Digestive-friendly iron – the best solution for what your body needs during pregnancy

So, just before you avoid iron supplements, it’s important for you to know there’s a way to enjoy a strong and healthy body during pregnancy, without side effects.

Before you choose an iron supplement, here’s what you should make sure”

• Choose an iron supplement that contains iron bisglycinat, which makes it easier and gentler to digest.
• Contains additions such as vitamin C and folic acid, contributing to its absorption.

So, say goodbye to the side effects and enjoy a healthy and strong body during your pregnancy!

Have an easy, pleasant and healthy pregnancy.