During pregnancy, the mother's iron needs doubled compared to before pregnancy. However, not all pregnant women can meet their iron needs. In fact, iron has many benefits for the health of the mother and fetus. you know.
Iron is an important mineral that is needed during pregnancy and can be obtained from various foods. Even so, the fact is that one in two pregnant women in Indonesia still experience anemia due to iron deficiency.
Iron deficiency in pregnant women is not a trivial thing that can be left alone. The reason is, lack of iron intake in pregnant women can cause babies to be born prematurely or born with low weight. At the time of delivery, anemia due to iron deficiency can also increase the risk of maternal death.
7 Benefits of Iron for Pregnant Women and Fetus
Iron is divided into two types, namely heme iron from animals and non-heme iron from plants. Whatever the type, these two types of iron both have a myriad of benefits for pregnant women and fetuses, including:
1. Prevent anemia in pregnant women
Pregnant women are very susceptible to anemia because their bodies naturally need more iron supplies than before pregnancy, which is about 27 mg per day. This need increases because the volume of blood in the body of pregnant women also increases.
Iron is responsible for the formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin which are needed to supply oxygen and nutrients to the body of pregnant women and fetuses. By meeting the iron needs per day, pregnant women can avoid anemia.
2. Reduce the risk of fatigue in pregnant women
Fatigue is a common symptom in pregnancy. However, pregnant women who experience anemia will usually be much easier to experience fatigue and feel weak.
This condition can make it difficult for pregnant women to carry out activities, even though staying active during pregnancy is important for maintaining the health of pregnant women and their fetuses, as well as increasing stamina for later delivery. So, in order not to get tired easily, one way that pregnant women can do is to meet their daily iron needs.
3. Strengthen the immune system of pregnant women
Pregnant women tend to get sick more easily or get infections that can endanger the health of themselves and their fetuses. Therefore, pregnant women are highly recommended to maintain their immune system, especially in the midst of the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Because it increases the production of hemoglobin in the blood, iron will also indirectly increase the immune system of pregnant women. With a strong immune system, pregnant women and fetuses can be protected from various diseases.
4. Support the process of fetal growth and development
The intake of iron consumed by mothers during pregnancy also has an important role in the process of fetal growth and development in the womb.
If the iron needs of pregnant women are met, the fetus can get an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients through the mother's blood, so that the function of the nerves and brain will develop optimally, as well as the function of other organs.
5. Reduce the risk of miscarriage
A study revealed that pregnant women who get enough iron have a lower risk of miscarriage.
This is because iron deficiency since early pregnancy can cause interference with the formation of the placenta which delivers nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. If there is interference with the placenta, the fetus will be difficult to develop, resulting in miscarriage.
6. Prevent premature birth
Premature birth can occur due to infection or the condition of the body of the pregnant woman who is not healthy. With sufficient iron intake, the health of pregnant women can be better maintained and their immune systems are stronger so they are not susceptible to infection.
That is the reason why adequate iron intake can also indirectly prevent premature birth.
7. Prevent low birth weight
In addition to the pregnant woman's own weight, maintaining the weight of the fetus in the womb is no less important. One of the goals is to prevent babies from having low birth weight.
Generally, babies born with low birth weight are more susceptible to illness and infection. In order for the fetus to have a normal weight and healthy condition, the pregnant woman must meet daily nutritional needs, including adequate intake of iron.
How to Meet Iron Needs During Pregnancy
Based on the various benefits of iron that have been described above, pregnant women should meet the daily needs of the body for this mineral. There are several ways that pregnant women can do.
Pregnant women can get iron from food, such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, to meat and fish. Iron from animal protein is known to be more easily absorbed by the body. However, it is important for pregnant women to get a variety of foods with balanced nutrition during pregnancy.
Pregnant women can also meet their iron intake from prenatal vitamins given by a doctor. Make sure pregnant women take it according to the dose recommended by the doctor, yes.
In addition to these two ways, consuming pregnant women's milk can be a good choice to get additional iron intake. Pregnant women's milk fortified with iron has a variety of flavors that pregnant women can choose according to taste.
Not only iron, a glass of pregnant women's milk can also help pregnant women meet other nutritional needs, including various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C which can increase iron absorption. The delicious taste of milk also helps pregnant women not feel nauseous when drinking it.
In addition to ensuring that nutritional needs are met, pregnant women also need to regularly check with their doctor. To reduce the risk of contracting the Corona virus, keep wearing a mask and provide hand sanitizer when pregnant women check the womb at the hospital, yes.
