What is Anemia?
Per MayoClinic: “Anemia is a condition in which you lack enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body’s tissues. Having anemia, also referred to as low hemoglobin, can make you feel tired and weak.”
How to avoid anemia (and recover from anemia) using nutrition. Anemia is common during and after pregnancy. Esther talks about how to stave it off, and how to use nutrition and what you eat to help recover from mild to severe anemia.
How to Avoid Anemia Before Pregnancy
On the Fourth Trimester Podcast, host Sarah Trott and postpartum doula Esther Gallagher discuss the importance of nutrition for women before pregnancy. They explain that women should consume foods rich in iron to ensure healthy red blood cell production. Pregnant women require approximately 30% or more blood volume to support themselves and their growing fetuses, making iron-rich foods even more critical. The hosts recommend eating various iron-rich foods, such as root vegetables, leafy greens, and red meat (if the individual can tolerate it). Additionally, for vegetarians, they suggest consuming beans, eggs, and whole grains, or supplementing with vitamin B12.
How to Avoid Anemia After Pregnancy
In the second half of the episode, Gallagher shares postpartum tips for getting proper nourishment to prevent anemia. She stresses the importance of consuming nutrient-dense, humanely raised meats like lamb liver and incorporating healthy fruits such as figs and apricots into a diet. She also mentions liquid iron supplements as beneficial sources of iron. Proper digestion and absorption are vital, and she recommends eating foods that aid in stomach acid production, such as fermented vegetables. Overall, Gallagher emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition to support new parents during this intense time.
Listen to Esther Gallagher on the Fourth Trimester Podcast Episode 70. Click here for iTunes and click here for Google Podcasts. Enjoy! xo
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Connect with Esther Gallagher esthergallagher.com
Learn more Cedars Sinai Pregnancy Anemia Guide | Nutrition and Nourishment: The Essentials | Chunky Lamb Stew Recipe
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The content provided in this article(s) is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or other professional advice. Neither Sarah Trott nor Buckeye Media LLC (DBA Fourth Trimester) are liable for claims arising from the use of or reliance on information contained in this article.