Iron intake during pregnancy - Dosage and benefits

Iron intake during pregnancy is important for both the mother and the developing baby. Iron is an essential mineral that plays a key role in the production of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells responsible for transporting oxygen throughout the body. During pregnancy, the body's demand for iron increases significantly to support the expansion blood volume, the development of the placenta, and the growth of the foetus.

What function does iron serve in the body?

Iron’s primary function is to contribute to the haemoglobin formation, the protein in the red blood cells transports oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Iron is a component of myoglobin which is a protein that is important for oxygen storage and release in muscle cells.

Hence, maintaining the amount of iron at an appropriate level is crucial for overall health. Lack of iron in the body can lead to anaemia which leads to reduced ability of the blood to carry oxygen. Therefore, a balanced and adequate amount of iron is important for supporting various functions physiologically.

Why is iron intake important for pregnant women?

Iron is a vital mineral that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions, particularly during pregnancy. Hence, it is important that pregnant women get sufficient amount of intake during this development.

There are a few reasons why iron intake is important for pregnant women:

1. Foetal development

Iron is important for the development of the foetus, including the formation of the developing baby’s own stores of iron in which support the growth of the organs and tissues. Adequate iron plays a role in supporting the formation of neural connections can help lay the foundation for healthy brain functions.

2. Increased blood volume

Pregnant women’s blood volume increases to supply oxygen and nutrients to the foetus. Adequate iron is essential to support the increased production of haemoglobin and avoid iron-deficiency anaemia in both the mother and the developing baby.

3. Postpartum recovery

Sufficient iron stores are important for postpartum recovery. Ensuring sufficient iron intake helps the mother recover and regain her strength after delivery. It will help with increasing the energy levels and fatigue by supporting the haemoglobin production and oxygen transportation, as well as enhancing the ability to cope with the daily routine.

How much iron do pregnant women need?

As recommended by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), pregnant women aged 19-50 years should consume around 27mg of iron per day. However, it important to note that individual iron needs may vary based on factors like pre-existing anaemia, dietary habits, and so on. Routine blood tests during prenatal care is recommended to monitor iron levels. Based on Ministry of Health Malaysia (https://www.moh.gov.my/moh/images/gallery/rni/15_chat.pdf), the iron supplementation (100mg) is recommended for pregnant women.

Best food sources for iron

1. Red Meat – Beef, Lamb, Pork

2. Poultry – Chicken

3. Fish – Tuna, Salmon, Sardines

4. Shellfish – Shrimps, Clams, Oysters

5. Plant-Based Sources – Tofu. Soybeans and Soy products, Quinoa

6. Nuts and Seeds – Pumpkin seeds, Sesame seeds, Cashews

7. Dark Leafy Greens – Spinach, Kale

8. Dried Fruits – Raisins

9. Whole Grains – Brown rice, Whole wheat bread

Anaemia – iron deficiency

Iron deficiency anaemia is a common when the body lacks enough iron to produce enough haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells which carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. The body can't produce an adequate amount of haemoglobin, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity and other symptoms associated with anaemia.

Are iron supplements necessary during pregnancy?

Iron supplements during pregnancy are often recommended, but their necessity depends on the individual’s circumstances. During pregnancy, a woman's iron needs increase significantly to support the growing baby as well as the development of the placenta.

Frequently asked questions on iron and pregnancy:

Why is iron important during pregnancy?

Iron is important for the development of the foetus, including the formation of the developing baby’s own stores of iron in which support the growth of the organs and tissues.

What causes anaemia in pregnancy?

Anaemia during pregnancy is common condition. There are some factors that can contribute to anaemia is the increase in blood volume, deficiency in vitamin B12, as well as poor diet.

How much iron does a pregnant woman need?

As recommended by the US National Institutes of Health (NIH), pregnant women aged 19-50 years should consume around 27mg of iron per day. However, it important to note that individual iron needs may vary based on factors like pre-existing anaemia, dietary habits, and so on. Routine blood tests during prenatal care is recommended to monitor iron levels.

Can you take too much iron during pregnancy?

Excessive iron levels in the body which can cause serious conditions such as hemochromatosis. Therefore, a balanced and adequate amount of iron is important for supporting various functions physiologically.