The key to good health lies in the food you consume. A balanced nutrient-rich meal is one of the sure-shot ways to stop anemia. However, straightforward it sounds, this will get difficult throughout pregnancy. Here are some ways to ascertain that you are keeping anemia at bay by following a healthy eating pattern.
To prevent anemia during pregnancy, make sure you eat food that gives you enough iron content. This will mean that you have to aim for at least three servings a day of iron-rich foods, such as:
- Lean red meat, poultry, and fish
- Leafy, dark green vegetables (such as spinach, broccoli, and kale)
- Iron-enriched cereals and grains
- Beans, lentils, and tofu
- Nuts and seeds
- Eggs
Remember that foods that are high in vitamin C can help your body absorb more iron. These include:
- Citrus fruits and juices
- Strawberries
- Kiwis
- Tomatoes
- Bell peppers
The key is in timing and trying to eat these iron-rich foods and Vitamin C-rich foods at the same time. You could team up a glass of orange juice with iron-fortified cereal for breakfast.
Consuming folate is important too. Experts recommend all women of childbearing age and all women who are pregnant take vitamin supplements with at least 400 micrograms of folic acid. The natural sources of folate are:
- Leafy green vegetables
- Citrus fruits and juices
- Dried beans
- Bread and cereals fortified with folic acid
If you are having a tough time eating some of the above-mentioned foods because of your pregnancy, your doctor may suggest supplements for each of these. However, you have to keep some things in mind when you plan out your eating schedule.
If you are a vegetarian you can leave the meat out. However, have a consultation with your health care professional about how to balance out nutrient intake. If your health care professional has suggested you take iron supplements, here is something you have to keep in mind.
Tips for taking your iron supplement
Iron is best absorbed on an empty stomach
Take your iron supplements with a source of vitamin C, because vitamin C helps iron absorption.
Avoid dairy products, spinach, caffeine, soy products, and whole-grain bread and cereals for one hour before and two hours after you take your iron supplements.
Take a gap of two hours before you eat your calcium supplements.
To prevent constipation, drink plenty of water, exercise regularly
Remember that black stools are normal when you take iron supplements. However, you have to contact your doctor if your stools turn tarry or have streaks of red.
The key is in being aware. Pregnancy is a delicate situation and needs to be managed with care. It is important for both the mother and the child to be healthy and have a happy pregnancy.
At Divakar’s Hospital, we follow a very transparent system. Our doctors and other healthcare professionals follow the best practices as laid down by the government. They will clarify any doubt and explain each of our concerns with care and affection. Do drop by for an expert opinion.
For enquiries and online appointments, send a message to www.DivakarsHospital.com/contact
You can seek 2nd opinion with Dr Hema Divakar and other specialist doctors through the Divakar’s Hospital app which can be downloaded from Google Play Store or ios here – https://bit.ly/2C5cW1e
Subscribe to Divakars Hospital YouTube Channel and stay updated on videos related to pregnancy and women’s healthcare. Subscribe here – https://bit.ly/3Avct4w
For enquiries and online appointments, send a message to www.DivakarsHospital.com/contact
You can seek 2nd opinion with Dr Hema Divakar and other specialist doctors through the Divakar’s Hospital app which can be downloaded from Google Play Store or ios here – https://bit.ly/2C5cW1e
Subscribe to Divakars Hospital YouTube Channel and stay updated on videos related to pregnancy and women’s healthcare. Subscribe here – https://bit.ly/3Avct4w
