Pregnancy Tips: How Much Iron Do You Need and How to Get It

Iron is crucial all throughout pregnancy as it is essential in producing hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen on the body. Around 15 to 25 percent of women in the United States suffer from anemia all throughout their pregnancy.

Lack if iron can lead to serious illness which can cause various birth defects and anemia among pregnant women. Expecting mothers need at least 27 mg of iron per day, which is twice the amount needed when a woman isn't pregnant. Not all pregnant women need to take iron supplement as some already have adequate iron supply in their daily food intake according to Parents.

"In general, most women who have adequate iron stores, take a prenatal vitamin, and eat a normal diet probably won't need an iron supplement," Melissa Goist, M.D. said.

Iron supply would tend to decrease during pregnancy wherein women would develop iron deficiency. As per American Pregnancy Association, 15 to 25 percent of women are diagnosed with anemia, which is an iron deficiency. Lack of iron in the bodies of pregnant women can lead to serious both defects which include low birth weight, premature birth, and even miss carriage.

Web Md then added that pregnant women who are diagnosed with anemia do not have to put it much effort in having their iron deficiency treated. Iron intake can easily be acquired through various dishes including red meat, green leafy vegetables, beef liver, raisins, soybeans, oysters, iron fortified cereal and iron fortified oatmeal. Over the counter iron supplements can also be bought on local drugstores or the doctor's office.

Having too much iron in one's body, however, might cause minor complications. Pregnant women with too much iron consumption may tend to suffer from constipation. It is important to consume fiber-rich meals such as oats, various fruits and vegetables.