Feeling tired? It’s a common complaint during pregnancy, and anemia might be the culprit.
Anemia is a condition where your blood doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells. But don’t worry, it’s often easily managed with a few simple changes.
Why does anemia happen during pregnancy?
As your baby grows, your body needs more iron to make new blood cells. If you don’t get enough iron, you can develop anemia.
What can you do?
- Talk to your university graduate Nutritionist and doctor: Your Nutritionist can work with a lab and/or doctors to perform a simple blood test to check for anemia and recommend the right treatment for you.
- Eat iron-rich foods: Incorporate foods like lean meats, beans, lentils, and leafy green vegetables into your diet.
- Pair iron with vitamin C: Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better. Try pairing iron-rich foods with citrus fruits or tomatoes.
- Consider supplements: Your healthcare professional may recommend an iron supplement.
What foods are rich in iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12?
- Iron: Red meat, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, leafy green vegetables, and fortified cereals.
- Folic acid: Leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, beans, and fortified cereals.
- Vitamin B12: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products.
Remember: Every pregnancy is unique.
By working closely with your healthcare provider and making mindful food choices, you can manage anemia and ensure a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.
Want more personalized advice? Schedule a consultation with a university graduate nutritionist!
Resources:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/iron-deficiency-anemia#next-steps
- Abu-Ouf NM, Jan MM. The impact of maternal iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia on child’s health. Saudi Med J. 2015 Feb;36(2):146-9. doi: 10.15537/smj.2015.2.10289. PMID: 25719576; PMCID: PMC4375689.