diet

What about Anemia?

June 3rd, 2012 |

Anemia occurs during pregnancy but what IS it and how can you help from becoming too anemic during pregnancy?

Let’s start with a little physiology. Red blood cells are important in the body since they carry oxygen to the tissues. Oxygen to the tissues equals energy in the body. What happens when this is compromised?

Fatigue
Weakness
Lack of energy

How does this occur? During pregnancy your requirements for iron are significantly higher in order to make the protein in red blood cells, and the additional blood needed for you and your baby.

What foods are helpful?

My top 3 recommendations are:

Lean red meat
Eggs
Pumpkin seeds

If you consume these foods on a daily basis depending on preferences with a food high in vitamin C (strawberries, oranges, kiwis, red peppers, etc.) it boosts the absorption of iron.

In addition, you will probably need to take an additional iron supplement during your pregnancy. Since iron supplements can cause constipation make sure to increase your intake of high-fiber foods such as fruit, vegetables, nuts/seeds, beans and ground flax seeds.

Anemia can be managed and controlled with a combination of diet and supplements to help you and your healthy baby!