1. Why do pregnant women need to supplement iron?
During pregnancy, the pregnant woman\’s body needs more iron to meet the needs of the fetus and itself. Iron is an important component in making hemoglobin, which is a key substance that transports oxygen to all parts of the body. Therefore, if a pregnant woman is deficient in iron, it will lead to anemia, fatigue, dizziness and other uncomfortable symptoms.
2. What foods can pregnant women use to supplement iron?
1. Red meat
Red meat is one of the most common iron-rich foods. Beef, mutton and pork are rich in hemoglobin and iron, which can effectively help pregnant women supplement the nutrients they need.
2. Beans
Beans are also an important source of iron. Black beans, soybeans, adzuki beans, etc. all contain higher amounts of iron and are also rich in protein and other nutrients.
3. Green leafy vegetables
Green leafy vegetables also contain higher amounts of iron, such as celery, rapeseed, etc. In addition, these vegetables are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C and folic acid, which help improve the absorption rate of iron.
4. Dried fruits
Dried fruits are also a good choice for pregnant women to supplement their iron content. Raisins, dates, almonds, etc. all contain higher amounts of iron and are rich in other nutrients.
3. How to better absorb iron?
In addition to consuming enough iron, pregnant women also need to pay attention to how to better absorb these nutrients. Here are some ways to improve iron absorption:
1. With vitamin C
Vitamin C can promote the body\’s absorption of iron, so when pregnant women eat iron-rich foods, it is best to eat them with some vitamin C-rich foods.
2. Avoid combination with anti-nutrients
Some foods contain anti-nutrients, which can affect the body\’s absorption of iron. Tea and coffee contain a large amount of tannic acid, which combines with iron to form compounds that are difficult to absorb. Therefore, pregnant women should avoid combining these foods with them.
3. Maintain moderate exercise
Moderate exercise can promote the body\’s metabolism and blood circulation, and help improve the body\’s absorption rate of iron.
4. What should pregnant women pay attention to when taking iron supplements?
Although adequate iron supplementation is very important for both pregnant women and fetuses, pregnant women also need to pay attention to the following points when taking iron supplements:
1. Don’t overdose
Excessive intake of iron may cause poisoning symptoms, vomiting, diarrhea, etc. Therefore, pregnant women should have a good intake of iron supplements and not overdose.
2. Cooperate with doctor’s advice
If pregnant women have been diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia and other problems, they should supplement according to the doctor\’s advice. The doctor may prescribe some injections orOral medications are taken to help pregnant women better absorb iron.
3. Eat healthy food
In order to avoid consuming too much fat and sugar, pregnant women should choose healthy foods when choosing iron-rich foods. Lean meat, beans, green leafy vegetables, etc. are all healthier choices.
In short, it is very important for pregnant women to supplement enough iron for themselves and their fetuses. When taking iron supplements, pregnant women need to pay attention to the intake and absorption rate, and follow the doctor\’s recommendations for supplementation. At the same time, you should also pay attention to choosing healthy foods to ensure balanced nutrition.
