During pregnancy, "RBC" refers to red blood cells, which play a crucial role in supplying oxygen to both the mother and the developing baby.
Why are Red Blood Cells Important in Pregnancy?
During the last half of pregnancy, a woman's body increases its production of red blood cells to meet the growing needs of both herself and her baby. According to available references, every red blood cell uses iron as its core. Iron is essential for the formation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Since the body cannot produce iron, it must be obtained through diet.
How to Support Healthy RBC Production During Pregnancy
Here are some ways to support healthy RBC production:
- Iron-rich diet: Consume foods rich in iron, such as lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, and fortified cereals.
- Vitamin C: Enhance iron absorption by eating foods rich in vitamin C, like citrus fruits, berries, and peppers.
- Prenatal vitamins: Take prescribed prenatal vitamins, which usually contain iron and other essential nutrients.
