Anaemia is a common condition among pregnant women, affecting about one in three pregnancies globally. It is a condition where there is a deficiency in the number of red blood cells or the amount of haemoglobin in the blood, leading to a decreased ability to carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Anaemia can cause fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and other health complications during pregnancy.
Tips To Prevent Anaemia During Pregnancy
Fortunately, there are several tips that can help prevent anaemia during pregnancy.
1. Eat a Nutritious Diet
One of the most effective ways to prevent anaemia during pregnancy is to eat a balanced and nutritious diet. A pregnant woman's body requires more iron, folate, and vitamin B12 during pregnancy to support the growth and development of the foetus. Therefore, it is essential to consume foods that are rich in these nutrients. Foods such as lean meat, fish, eggs, leafy green vegetables, fortified cereals, and citrus fruits are good sources of iron, folate, and vitamin B12.
2. Take Iron Supplements
In some cases, a balanced and nutritious diet may not provide sufficient amounts of iron to prevent anaemia during pregnancy. In such situations, iron supplements may be recommended by a healthcare provider. Iron supplements are available in various forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquid, and should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Also read: 7 Signs Of Polycystic Kidney Disease
3. Avoid Iron Blockers
Certain foods and beverages can interfere with iron absorption, leading to a decreased ability to prevent anaemia during pregnancy. For instance, tea, coffee, and calcium-rich foods such as milk and cheese can inhibit iron absorption. Therefore, it is essential to avoid consuming these foods and beverages at the same time as iron-rich foods or supplements.
4. Consider Folate Supplements
Folate is another essential nutrient that plays a critical role in preventing anaemia during pregnancy. It helps in the production of new red blood cells and can prevent neural tube defects in the foetus. Folate supplements are recommended for pregnant women, especially during the first trimester, when the foetus' neural tube is developing.
5. Get Regular Check-Ups
Regular prenatal check-ups are essential to ensure that the pregnancy is progressing normally and to identify any health complications, including anaemia. During prenatal check-ups, healthcare providers may conduct blood tests to check for anaemia and other health conditions. Early detection and treatment of anaemia can prevent complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Also read: 7 Signs Of Polycystic Kidney Disease
6. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help prevent anaemia during pregnancy. Water is essential for the production of red blood cells and helps in the transportation of nutrients and oxygen to the body's tissues. Pregnant women should aim to drink at least eight to ten glasses of water and other fluids daily.
7. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise during pregnancy can help prevent anaemia by increasing blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues. Pregnant women should engage in low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga, with the approval of a healthcare provider.
8. Get Enough Rest
Getting adequate rest is crucial for preventing anaemia during pregnancy. Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, which can exacerbate anaemia symptoms. Pregnant women should aim to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night and take naps during the day if needed.
Anaemia during pregnancy can lead to several health complications for both the mother and the baby. Fortunately, there are several tips that pregnant women can follow to prevent anaemia, including eating a nutritious diet, taking iron and folate supplements, avoiding iron blockers, getting regular check-ups, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest. These tips, combined with the guidance of a healthcare provider, can help ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy for both the mother and the baby.
