In pregnancy, the energy requirement is only low, but the nutrient requirement is increased in part by double. This means: class instead of mass! Only through the varied consumption of foods with high nutrient density and the extensive renunciation of “empty” calories, the requirement in pregnancy can be met.
Iron deficiency in pregnancy: how to prevent?
Foods containing iron are mainly meat and meat products. Iron is also present in foods of plant origin. However, it can be utilized much more poorly than animal iron. The utilization of plant-derived iron can be increased by the additional intake of vitamin C. It is recommended to drink a glass of orange juice before the meal or to combine the meal with foods that contain abundant vitamin C.
Iron content: foods rich in iron
Plant foods high in iron are green vegetables, legumes and whole grain bread. That spinach is said to contain particularly high levels of iron is an old wives’ tale. Regular iron absorption can be hindered by certain substances. These include oxalic acid, which is found in rhubarb and spinach, alginates in pudding powder and packet soups, tannins in coffee and black tea, and phytic acid as an ingredient in rice and soy. Antibiotics and antacids (gastric acid neutralizing substances) also hinder iron absorption. Note: To meet the increased iron requirement, a side dish of meat should be on the menu twice a week. Because of the low fat content, beef and lean poultry are preferable. Further supplementation of iron requirements can be achieved by eating two fish meals a week.
Iron deficiency in pregnancy: what to do?
In principle, an iron deficiency must be examined by a doctor in order to treat and eliminate the cause. This is especially true during pregnancy, after blood loss during childbirth and during breastfeeding. Laboratory findings of the blood for hemoglobin, red blood cells, iron, ferritin and transferrin are used to make the diagnosis. In addition, an examination of the stool for blood and an iron resorption test (absorption disorder in the intestine) can confirm the diagnosis. This involves measuring the concentration of iron in the blood before and two hours after taking an iron tablet. If necessary, the doctor prescribes an iron supplement, which is mainly taken as a tablet on an empty stomach before meals. Side effects of iron substitution such as blackening of the stool, possibly nausea or constipation should be discussed in detail with the gynecologist. In most cases, preventive iron supplementation is recommended during pregnancy.
