Fighting Anemia during Pregnancies
Anemia affects a number of women during pregnancy, thereby being a cause of concern for the health of both – the expectant woman and the baby. It is therefore vital to know the causes of anemia as well the ways to prevent it right from the start during pregnancies with the help of your obstetrician in St Albans and Werribee
Including food high in iron in your diet
A proper nutrition can keep anemia at bay to a great extent, especially during pregnancies where you need to consume food for both yourself and the growth of the baby. Eggs, red meat, fish and poultry are some of the food items you must ensure the intake of among most iron sources. Apart from these, you can also consume leafy vegetables, peas, dried beans, lentils, prune juice, cereals, etc. Among these, it is easy for the body to absorb iron from animal meat and other products as compared to other sources such as spinach. To help aid the absorption of iron, make sure you have an intake of food items or beverages that are high in vitamin C. This includes tomato juice, orange juice, and strawberries.
Avoiding excessive intake of calcium
While calcium is essential in your regular diet, it can significantly decrease the absorption of iron in your body. Taking both of these together can lead to iron deficiency despite your daily iron consumption. If you have been prescribed both, make sure you take one after an hour’s gap to let your body absorb both the elements.
Staying in touch with your obstetrician throughout the pregnancy
Even when taking all necessary precautions and consuming everything needed to avoid anemia during pregnancy, it is a possibility among some women. To help you treat this deficiency, it is best to stay in touch with your obstetrician in St Albans and Werribee throughout your pregnancy. With a number of tests, your obstetrician will be able to figure out the reason for the iron deficiency and alter your treatment accordingly. If needed, he/ she may prescribe oral iron supplements to help increase your iron count. For those unable to tolerate an oral supplication of iron, intravenous administrations are suggested.
Since pregnancy is more than just about you, ensuring that you combat anemia as early as possible could help in safe gestation and delivery. Follow the guidelines laid down by your obstetrician to make sure your baby receives the necessary quota of iron, vitamins, and more.
