What should be the proper iron intake during pregnancy.
monirani posted on Thu, 12/10/2009 - 15:29
I have been hearing that I should eat food with more of iron. Also in my last visit to the gynecologist she said that maybe she will give me some supplements for iron if she feels the need. I really want to know what is the proper amount of iron intake and which foods are rich in it?
Leafy Green vegetables and nuts are rich in iron. But I have been advised to take some folic acid supplements by my doctor.
Iron from animal food is absorbed easily by the body. So, taking some chicken, mutton or fish each day can be good. But make sure you do not eat fish that has high mercury content.
If you are a vegetarian and have to get your iron contents from vegetables then eat whole wheat bread, pulses, dried fruits like raisins, dates figs etc.
My cousin who is a doctor told me that iron requirements of a pregnant woman needs more than double that of a normal woman. After 20 weeks of pregnancy we need 30-50 mg of iron.
Vitamin C helps in the absorption of iron so its always good to take some vitamin C rich food after eating iron rich food. May be you can have orange juice with your food. If you are taking iron supplements take it with juice.
Caffeine hinders the absorption of iron so avoid it.
My doctor gave me some iron supplements as well though not through out pregnancy but for about 3 months. Sometimes these supplements becomes necessary apart from food.