Functions of Cell Membranes and Things You Need to Know

It's important to pay attention to foods to avoid when pregnant women have low Hb, as some foods can actually inhibit iron absorption and worsen anemia. Let's learn what foods pregnant women need to avoid for a healthy pregnancy until delivery!

Basically, foods to avoid when pregnant women have low Hb are foods high in calcium, fast food, processed foods, foods high in oxalate, and foods containing phytate.

Functions of Cell Membranes and Things You Need to Know

All of these foods should be limited or avoided by pregnant women because they can interfere with iron absorption in the body, making it difficult for anemia to improve.

Various Foods to Avoid When Hb is Low in Pregnant Women Pregnancy

Low Hb in pregnant women is a condition in which the hemoglobin (Hb) level in the blood is below the normal limit, which is less than 11 grams per deciliter (g/dL). In the medical world, this condition is called anemia.

Anemia in pregnant women should not be taken lightly because this condition can interfere with the blood's ability to transport oxygen throughout the body. As a result, pregnant women can experience fatigue, dizziness, and an increased risk of pregnancy complications, as well as impacting the growth and development of the fetus in the womb.

To speed up the recovery process for anemia in pregnant women and increase iron absorption, there are several foods to avoid when Hb is low in pregnant women, namely:

1. Foods high in excessive calcium

Calcium is indeed important for pregnant women, especially for healthy bones and teeth. However, if consumed in excess, calcium can interfere with the absorption of iron from plant sources (non-heme) in the intestines. This is because calcium competes with iron in the absorption process.

Examples of foods high in calcium that should not be consumed with foods rich in iron include cheese, yogurt, milk, and other dairy products. To avoid impaired absorption, pregnant women should consume foods high in calcium several hours after or before consuming iron-rich foods.

2. Processed and fast foods

Processed and fast foods are generally low in essential nutrients, such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, which are needed for red blood cell formation. Furthermore, these foods are often high in trans fats, salt, and additives, such as preservatives and artificial colors, which can disrupt the body's metabolism and worsen anemia.

If consumed excessively, processed and fast foods can cause unhealthy weight gain and increase the risk of high blood pressure in pregnant women. Therefore, pregnant women are advised to limit their consumption of foods such as sausages, nuggets, instant noodles, French fries, and fast-food fried chicken to maintain optimal hemoglobin levels.

3. Foods High in Oxalate

Foods high in oxalate should be avoided by pregnant women with anemia because oxalate can bind iron in the digestive tract, inhibiting its absorption by the body. This bound iron cannot be utilized, thus worsening low hemoglobin levels. In fact, pregnant women really need iron to support red blood cell production and oxygen supply to the fetus.

Some examples of foods high in oxalate include spinach, dark chocolate, beets, sweet potatoes, and some nuts like almonds and cashews. Although some of these foods contain iron, the high oxalate content makes iron absorption less effective.

If you still want to consume them, it's best to do so in limited quantities and in combination with foods high in vitamin C to help increase iron absorption.

4. Foods High in Phytates

Foods high in phytates, such as whole grains, are rich in fiber and good for digestion, but the phytate (phytic acid) they contain can inhibit iron absorption. Phytates work by binding iron in the digestive tract, making it difficult for the body to absorb it, especially non-heme iron from plant sources.

If consumed too frequently without balancing it with animal sources of vitamin C or iron, this can worsen low hemoglobin levels in pregnant women. Examples of foods containing phytates include whole wheat bread, cereals, and some types of grains.

5. Foods high in polyphenols

Foods high in polyphenols, such as chocolate, red wine, tea, and certain fruits and vegetables, contain antioxidant compounds that are actually beneficial for health.

However, in pregnant women with anemia, these compounds can bind iron in the digestive tract and inhibit its absorption. If consumed in excess or close to mealtimes, foods high in polyphenols can reduce the effectiveness of iron intake, thus worsening anemia.

Avoiding the foods mentioned above can help optimize iron absorption and support recovery from anemia during pregnancy.

From the explanation above, it can be concluded that all foods to avoid when pregnant women have low Hb are types of foods that can inhibit iron absorption or interfere with the process of red blood cell formation, so their consumption should be limited to support recovery from anemia and fetal health.

However, the foods mentioned above do not need to be completely avoided during pregnancy. Pregnant women can still consume it, but there are several tips to keep in mind, namely:

  • Avoid consuming milk, cheese, or yogurt with foods or iron supplements
  • Avoid consuming tea, coffee, or soda one hour before or after a heavy meal or while taking iron supplements
  • Separately consume foods high in calcium and sources of iron to ensure optimal iron absorption.

Maintain a balanced diet and pay attention to meal timing It is very important for pregnant women with low Hb to maintain optimal nutrition and pregnancy health.

If you are concerned about food choices or need further treatment, don't hesitate to consult anytime through Chat with a Doctoron the ALODOKTER app. With this consultation, you will receive reliable medical advice that will help maintain optimal maternal and fetal health.

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