Iron is an essential nutrient responsible for oxygen delivery within the body. According to MayoClinic.com, insufficient iron intake can cause fatigue, decreased immunity and shortness of breath. Because of a pregnant woman's larger blood volume, iron needs increase during her pregnancy. Iron is often included in prenatal vitamins, which are multivitamins formulated for pregnancy and for women trying to conceive.
Iron
Iron is an integral part of hemoglobin, the molecule in red blood cells that is responsible for delivering oxygen to organs and tissues. If you are pregnant, the iron in your blood is also responsible for delivery of your baby's oxygen needs. Beef, pork, beans, spinach, wheat germ and oatmeal are good sources of iron. Iron is available as a supplement and is often included in prenatal vitamin formulations.
Prenatal Vitamins
Prenatal vitamins are usually higher in folic acid, iron and calcium than regular multivitamins, due to the increased needs for these nutrients during pregnancy. Look for prenatal vitamins that contain at least 27 mg of iron, the amount required during pregnancy, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Needs
Women who are not pregnant require 18 mg of iron per day. According to the American Pregnancy Association, iron deficiency in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of preterm labor and low birth weight. Because half of all pregnant women do not consume enough iron in their diet, they often need supplements.
Considerations
Vitamin C enhances iron absorption. Taking iron with vitamin C-rich foods, such as orange juice, tomatoes or strawberries, is a good idea. Other foods, including coffee, tea and milk, can interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron. Consuming these foods separately from iron is important for optimum absorption. Because iron supplementation can cause constipation, the American Pregnancy Association recommends consuming plenty of fluids and fiber-containing foods to help prevent it from occurring.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Iron Supplement (Oral Route, Parenteral Route)
- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists: Nutrition During Pregnancy
- American Pregnancy Association: Essential Nutrients & Vitamins for Pregnancy
- American Pregnancy Association: Pregnancy and Constipation
- March of Dimes: Pregnancy Complications: Anemia
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