We love our Wholesome Iron supplement. It was formulated with both expecting and new mothers in mind.
The Importance of Iron
Iron is essential for both mother and baby during pregnancy and the postpartum period. For mothers, Iron aids in maintaining healthy blood and facilitating oxygen transport. This is vital during pregnancy due to the increased blood volume every mother experiences. Beyond that, Iron supports thyroid functions, placenta growth, and combats fatigue. In the postpartum phase, it assists in blood regeneration after delivery and lochia (the typical bleeding phase post-delivery).
For the baby, adequate Iron in the womb promotes proper birth weight and timely neurodevelopment. It's of utmost importance, as an Iron deficiency can have lingering effects into childhood. Notably, low Iron levels at birth can escalate the chances of Iron deficiency anemia later on. This condition can adversely affect brain energy metabolism, neurotransmitter function, and myelination, potentially leading to developmental issues.
Recommended Iron Intake
For adult women, the recommended daily intake (RDA) of Iron stands at 18mg. However, this value jumps to 27mg during pregnancy. Surprisingly, the RDA drops to just 9mg for breastfeeding mothers, assuming they aren't menstruating. This doesn't factor in the blood loss during delivery and lochia.
To ensure optimal health, we advise aiming for 27mg of Iron daily, through food or supplements, for the initial six weeks post-delivery. After this period, factors like ferritin levels, breastfeeding status, diet, and menstrual cycle resumption will dictate your Iron needs. Regular testing is key to gauge your current status and adjust accordingly.
The Best Sources of Iron
Iron is derived from both plants and animals. Animal-derived Iron (heme Iron) is present in red meat, poultry, and fish. Vegetarian sources (non-heme Iron) encompass spinach, chard, lentils, chickpeas, quinoa, and pumpkin seeds. Our body absorbs heme Iron more effectively than its non-heme counterpart, making Iron deficiencies common among vegetarians and those restricting red meat intake. To boost non-heme Iron absorption, consider increasing your Vitamin C intake.
Meeting Iron needs can be challenging, especially if you experience meat aversions or avoid red meat. If supplementation becomes necessary, we endorse Ferrous Bisglycinate Chelate. In our Prenatal Iron supplement, we utilize this form as it ensures easy absorption and reduces common side effects like constipation and digestive discomfort.
Why We Chose To Make A Stand Alone Iron Product
Many prenatal vitamins pack a high dose of Iron or neglect to mention its omission. Through our research, we've realized the importance of balanced Iron intake. Insufficient amounts risk anemia and developmental issues, while excess can create oxidative stress and affect gut health. Moreover, Iron can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, like Zinc.
By excluding Iron from our Wholesome Prenatal Multivitamin and Wholesome Postnatal Multivitamin, we are able to optimize nutrient absorption and avoid the risks associated with over-supplementation.
Our Wholesome Iron features Ferrous Bisglycinate which is know for maximum absorption and is easy on your stomach.
Tailored Iron Dosage
Iron needs vary, so one size doesn't fit all. That's why we've designed our Iron supplement in a manageable dose of 13.5mg that can be adjusted. This allows you to adapt based on your pregnancy stage or dietary habits.
We recommend consulting your healthcare provider to regularly assess your Iron levels pre, during, and post-pregnancy, and adjust your intake as required.
Signs of Iron Deficiency
Symptoms of low Iron include fatigue, weakness, paleness, rapid heartbeat, breathlessness, headaches, dizziness, cold extremities, tongue soreness, brittle nails, and peculiar cravings like ice or dirt.
A Holistic Iron Supplement Approach
Recognizing the significance of Iron for both mother and baby, we've formulated our supplement to cater to every mother's unique needs, ensuring that all enjoy the benefits of Iron at every stage of motherhood.