Foods With Iron

If you are pregnant, you should try to be familiar with foods with iron. You may be overwhelmed with the broad range of topics that you now feel the pressure to be expert in.

Foods With Iron

This is normal! There are so many new things to think about during pregnancy. Keep in mind that you can avoid health problems during pregnancy if you try to focus some on nutrition during pregnancy.

One such problem is anemia. If you can make an effort to include iron-rich foods in your diet during pregnancy, you will be glad you did. If you get anemic, you will not feel well, and most likely will be even more tired than you may already be.

Why is anemia common during pregnancy?

Your blood volume almost doubles during pregnancy, due to the needs to support a growing baby. Iron is necessary for hemoglobin, and if there is not enough stored in the body, you can become anemic.

Can anemia be prevented during pregnancy?

Definitely! It is best to prevent anemia rather than have to treat it later. The best way to prevent anemia is by eating plenty of foods with iron.

Foods high in iron can be both animal foods and plant foods such as beef, pork, lamb, veal, chicken, fish, soy nuts, wheat brain, enriched cereals, red beans, and others.

How is your iron-level tested during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, your physician will probably check your hemoglobin. You should also be aware of the signs of anemia, and bring them to the attention of your physician if you experience them.

What are the signs of anemia?

One of the biggest signs of anemia is being very tired. This is also usually a common pregnancy problem as well.

Other signs that you may be anemic include dizziness, pale skin, weakness, lightheadedness, shortness of breath, cold hands and/or feet, and headache.

How is iron-deficiency anemia treated in pregnant women?

If you are anemic, your physician will probably prescribe iron pills for you to take. It is best to take them with a source of Vitamin C (such as orange juice) and avoid taking them with milk (the calcium hinders absorption of the iron).

What if meats make me feel sick during pregnancy or if I am a vegetarian?

First of all, you are not alone! Many pregnant women feel sick at the sight, smell, or even thought of many types of meat. If it is the preparation of meats that makes you feel sick, consider trying to occasionally use pre-cooked meats that only need to be heated.

Also, keep in mind that there are many plant foods with iron as well!