49. Iron: Before, during and after pregnancy

We have all heard about how important iron is during pregnancy, but did you know that it is just as important when you are pre-pregnancy and breastfeeding? In today’s episode, we are talking about all matters relating to iron. Pregnant mothers' bodies need to literally make more blood to support the growing baby, and to do this she needs adequate iron levels. Through the birthing process, women lose blood, so it is important that you are not iron deficient or anemic leading into it because you need to have blood to spare. The challenge is that you may think low iron symptoms, such as feeling tired, are because you are pregnant, but in actuality, you may be iron deficient. Remember, it is so important to advocate for yourself with your doctor to ensure that you are being tested for iron deficiency (both through hemoglobin and ferritin) if you are feeling tired, fatigued, exhausted, or depressed. We all need iron, it doesn’t matter if you are a man or a woman. But women have the added complexities of the pre-pregnancy phase, the pregnancy phase, the breastfeeding phase, and the loss of iron through menstruation. We love hearing from you! Send us your questions for our next podcast through Speak Pipe so we can have your voice on the show. LINKS Instagram  @thekickpregnancypodcast_ Facebook  @thekickpregnancypodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.