During pregnancy, you develop a heightened awareness of your body’s requirements and become more careful about what you consume. Iron functions as an essential element that supports the well-being of both mothers and their developing babies. But here’s something you may not hear often: Taking too many iron supplements for pregnancy can become problematic because excess iron supplements can be harmful.
Although consuming more iron seems like an effective way to boost your energy and support your baby’s health, it can result in harmful side effects which are dangerous for both you and your infant. So, what indicators help you determine the optimal iron level?
Let’s break it down.
Why You Need Iron Supplements for Pregnancy?
Iron is essential for your body to create haemoglobin, which enables red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout your entire system. (Source: NIH) The growing needs of your baby during pregnancy require an increase in your blood volume. Your iron requirements will increase accordingly. Insufficient iron intake can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, which produces symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. You should avoid starting with the highest available iron supplements for pregnancy.
Can You Have Too Many Iron Supplements for Pregnancy?
Iron is essential for pregnant women. But the next question arises – is it safe to consume too many iron supplements for pregnancy? Taking supplements without proper knowledge can sometimes increase iron levels. You should stay aware of your consumption.
Although your body maintains iron levels well naturally, excessive iron supplement doses can disrupt this regulation system. The risks increase significantly when consuming high-strength supplements without an identified deficiency and professional healthcare guidance.
Iron overdose symptoms might appear vague and resemble typical pregnancy discomforts, which creates diagnostic difficulties. You might experience:
- Upset tummy: The common health issues include constipation (even worse than usual pregnancy constipation), nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain.
- Feeling generally unwell: An overload can sometimes result in a general feeling of discomfort.
How Do You Know If You’re Getting Too Much?
A simple blood test can identify the level of iron in the body. The doctor will examine your ferritin and haemoglobin levels to determine if you have an iron deficiency. High-dose iron supplements may not be necessary if your blood test shows that your levels are normal. Take supplements based on your actual needs instead of consuming products you think you need.
Essential Things You Need to Know While Taking Iron Supplements for Pregnancy
There are multiple iron supplements available for expectant mothers, but these products vary significantly in quality and formulation. The high iron levels in these supplements fail to be absorbed efficiently in your body, leading to frequent stomach discomfort. Additional components or harsh substances in some supplements increase processing difficulties for your body, particularly during pregnancy because of the sensitive state of your digestive system.
- Pregnant women should choose iron supplements that feature gentle iron forms such as iron bis-glycinate or iron II glycinate. (Source: PubMed)
- Choose gentle iron, like iron bis-glycinate or iron II glycinates.
- Also, look for vitamin C. It helps your body use iron well.
- Try to avoid things that can make you feel sick or constipated.
While looking for the best iron supplements for pregnancy, be careful with the iron you buy at the store that has high doses. More iron is not always better for your health. It might just mean more trips to the bathroom and feeling less comfortable.
How Often Should You Take Iron?
That depends entirely on your body’s needs. Iron requirements among women vary, as some need it every other day, while others require a daily intake. The key is to avoid self-diagnosing. Regularly consult your healthcare provider to modify your treatment plan during pregnancy.
Also, take note: Iron absorption is reduced by substances such as caffeine and dairy products alongside calcium supplements. Take your supplement between meals or consume vitamin C-rich foods such as oranges or strawberries when taking it.
MamaCare Iron Supplements – Gentle Iron for Women
The MamaCare iron supplements for pregnancy represent the ideal solution to boost your iron levels effectively without excess consumption. It contains a stomach-friendly iron formula that cooperates with your body instead of opposing it, unlike harsh high-dose iron tablets.
Each tablet contains:
- Iron II glycinate at 24 mg provides high absorption rates, so you get the necessary iron without gastrointestinal problems.
- Folic acid at a 200-mcg level helps create red blood cells while supporting neural tube development.
- The tablet contains 1.2 mg of vitamin B2 (riboflavin), which supports energy production and helps reduce fatigue.
- Taking 100 mg of vitamin C boosts iron absorption and strengthens immune system performance.
Iron supplements for pregnancy meet women’s special health needs. They are most effective for pregnant and breastfeeding women who require additional iron support, along with women who suffer from low energy levels and mild fatigue.
To achieve maximum absorption, take one tablet per day with food or right after eating. You must follow your doctor’s instructions when pregnant or breastfeeding to ensure safety.
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