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Why your ideal diet should have more of iron now

Team AckoFeb 8, 2024

During your gestation, you must intake nearly double quantity of iron than before because the risk of getting anemic is now at the higher end. Both mommy and kiddo need a lot more iron to make red blood cells. Iron deficiency anemia is the most typical type of anemia that occurs in pregnant women. Without enough iron in your blood, the organs and tissues in your body won't get as much oxygen as usual, (NHS Choices 2014) which is not good for you or your baby. Iron is not something, which can be made by your body, it should be absorbed from iron-rich food.

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Does iron deficiency affect you and your baby? Mild deficiency of iron should not affect your baby but severe anemia can undoubtedly affect both of you. Keep in mind that mild anemia can become severe if it is not treated on time. Severe anemia during pregnancy increases your risk of premature birth, having a low birth weight baby and postpartum depression. You may also experience dizziness, mood swings, and problems with concentration, chest pain, problems in breathing, pale skin and many more.

How is anemia treated? If your doctor thinks that you are anemic during this phase then he might advise you to start iron supplements or folic acid supplements in addition to multivitamins and other minerals. He may also recommend you to include foods that are high in iron.

What are the tips to increase the iron intake? -Include foods in your diet that are rich in iron such as lean red meat. One of the best sources of easily absorbed iron. -Dried beans, dark green leafy veggies (Spinach), wheat germ are a good source of folic acid. So increase the intake of these foods. -Foods which are a rich source of vitamin C should be consumed between the meals as it helps to increase the absorption of non-heme iron. -Pumpkin seeds, turkey, quinoa, legumes, liver and other organ meats are also a wonderful source of iron.

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only, based on industry experience and secondary sources. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Please consult a qualified expert for health or insurance-related decisions. Content is subject to change, refer to current policy wordings for specific ACKO details.

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