The Importance of Iron in Pregnancy

Importance of nutrition in pregnancy (English)

Importance of nutrition in pregnancy (Hindi)

Having a baby is a blessing which comes with happiness and responsibility.

Your and your baby's health during pregnancy and lactation depends on the foods you eat and their nutrients.

Essential during pregnancy and lactation is iron — truly a shakti nutrient!

According to the World Health Organisation, it is estimated that more than 40% of pregnant women worldwide are anaemic. At least half of this anaemia burden is due to iron deficiency.

Pregnant women require additional iron and folic acid to meet their own nutritional needs as well as those of the developing fetus. Deficiencies in iron and folic acid during pregnancy negatively impacts the health of the mother, pregnancy, as well as fetal development.

National research shows over half of all Indian pregnant women are iron deficient.*
If you are, remember to do the following:
- Eat iron-rich foods, e.g. green leafy vegetables, figs, dates, pulses
- Take your iron supplement (but not with tea, coffee, or milk)

*National Family Health Survey (NFHS) 4

Many pregnant women find it hard to take iron tablets every day – are you one of them?

Iron Supplementation Options in India

Guidelines for Iron Intake for Pregnant Women	Iron Per Day (2nd and 3rd Trimesters)	Folic Acid Per Day
World Health Organisation (WHO)	60 mg	400 mcg
Ministry of Health, Govt. of India	60 mg	500 mcg
FOGSI	60 mg	500 mcg
>> MamaBix (1 sachet)	60 mg	500 mcg

Dietary Sources of Iron:

Heme Sources (Non-vegetarian sources)	Non-Heme Sources (Vegetarian sources)	ADD Vitamin C (Vitamin C increases the absorption of iron)
• Poultry • Seafood • Eggs • Read Meat	• Fruits (e.g., figs, dates) • Dried seeds and nuts • Whole grains • Fortified cereals • Pulses and beans (e.g., lentils, peas, soyabeans, kidney beans) • Green leafy vegetables (e.g., spinach) Dried fruit (e.g., raisins)	• Fruit juices (e.g., lime, orange, amla) • Vegetable juices (e.g., tomato, carrot) • Whole fruits (e.g., orange, kiwi, mango, berries) • Whole vegetables (e.g., capsicum, tomato)

Tips for a Healthier Pregnancy*

Eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
Drink plenty of water, get adequate sleep and exercise.
Include iron-rich foods like green leafy vegetables, figs, dates, pulses, chicken, or fish.

* Follow doctor's advice as per your individual needs.

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