How to Begin the New Year in a Healthy Way
Healthy living should be a goal we all strive for, not just throughout the holiday season but 365 days out of the year.
One of the most important changes in a woman's body during pregnancy is an increase in blood volume. Therefore, pregnant women should make sure to consume a sufficient amount of iron-rich foods during pregnancy. There is a great relationship between iron and pregnancy.
Iron is important because it is involved in the production of hemoglobin, which in turn is involved in transporting oxygen around our bodies and also to our babies. For this reason, iron is a very important part of our overall health and well-being, especially during pregnancy.
Iron deficiency can be a very common problematic situation during pregnancy. Getting enough iron will help you to feel well during pregnancy. If you experience symptoms such as tiredness, shortness of breath or dizziness, this could indicate that you need more iron.
You need to make sure that your diet includes the best sources of iron-rich foods for pregnancy. If you're looking to up your intake of iron during pregnancy, here are some of the top food sources of (heme) iron: liver, beef heart, venison, bison, sardines, ground beef or turkey, clams, lamb, chicken thighs & chicken breast.
Our body more easily absorbs animal sources of iron than plant sources. Consuming these types of food, along with Vitamin C, can up your intake of iron.
If you are not getting enough iron, your practitioner may recommend an iron supplement.
So, it is of great importance that a pregnant woman should take iron during pregnancy. Some mothers who are found to be anemic are given supplements. Check with your OB-GYN or midwife if you have any questions about which of these foods are safe to consume while pregnant and to have your iron levels checked to make sure they aren’t low.
