Final answer:
During pregnancy, iron supplementation should ensure that increased iron needs are met without affecting the diet negatively. Iron supplements are more effectively absorbed when taken with vitamin C and fortifying foods with metallic iron powder has practical benefits over Fe2+ salts.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering iron supplementation during pregnancy, there are two important considerations to keep in mind:
- Iron needs during pregnancy: Pregnant women have an increased demand for iron, needing up to 27 mg daily. This is crucial to support the increase in blood volume and to provide for the growing fetus and placenta. Supplementation with 100 mg of iron per day may be necessary in cases of excessive menstrual blood loss or chronic iron-deficiency anemia.
- Iron absorption and diet: To maximize absorption, iron supplements should be taken with a source of vitamin C. It's recommended to include good dietary sources of iron such as shellfish, red meats, seeds, nuts, and legumes, with fortified breakfast cereals being a common source of added iron. When iron is added to foods, it is often in the form of fine metallic powder that doesn't affect taste or the properties of the food during preparation and cooking, and is cost-effective compared to Fe2+ salts.
Additionally, it is important to note that iron deficiency during pregnancy can lead to birth defects and anemia, thus emphasizing the significance of adequate iron intake during this period.