BY CLAIR WHITTY
Are you pregnant and feeling sluggish, tired, or exhausted? This is common during the early stages and the last stage or your pregnancy. The warm weather we have just had may well have left many of you feeling totally exhausted. Iron is required for energy for all of us but it is even more important during your pregnancy.
Chapped lips, brittle hair, constant fatigue, and palpitations are some of the tell-tale signs of iron deficiency which is common with pregnant women. Iron is needed to make haemoglobin, the chemical that transports oxygen in the blood. A severe deficiency can lead to anaemia, total exhaustion and a weakened immune system. And during your pregnancy you’re eating for two, or sometimes three or more! This means that your body will need more iron to stay healthy throughout your pregnancy.
A healthy balanced diet with iron rich foods will provide most of the iron you need during your pregnancy. This could include lean meats, pulses, fruit such as prunes, apricots and raisins, and dark green leafy vegetables. Vitamin C found fruit and vegetables can help your body absorb more iron from foods and supplements. On the other hand, things like black tea, coffee, and phosphates found in soft drinks can inhibit absorption. So, to maximise your supplement take it before eating.
But, it can be difficult to absorb enough iron from your diet for you and your growing baby particularly if you do have an iron deficiency. This is where supplements can come in and the one that I am thinking about is Floradix Liquid Iron. This can really help. Floradix Liquid Iron is easy to digest and most importantly it doesn’t have any of the nasty digestive side effects like stomach cramps and constipation. It contains Iron Gluconate which is a highly absorbable form of Iron with some vitamin C and B Vitamins to support absorption. Plus, it has recently celebrated over 100 years of success, that is difficult to beat.
It’s actually my favourite iron supplement. I like it because I have used it many times over the years and it has always given me a lift. I also like it because it is completely free of chemical preservatives, colourings, or flavourings, and is also available in a gluten-free form called Floravital.
Happy pregnancy
Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre
Phone: 056 7764538
Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie
