Anaemia, due to iron deficiency, is common in pregnancy whether you are vegetarian or not. Vegetarians should be especially careful to include plenty of iron in their diet as vegetable sources are not as well absorbed. Good vegetarian sources of iron can be found in wholegrain cereals, pulses, green vegetables and dried fruits. Iron absorption is increased if taken with a good source of vitamin C, which can be found in fresh fruit and vegetables. Tea contains tannin which can inhibit iron absorption and should not be taken an hour before or after a meal.
Many doctors routinely prescribe iron tablets for pregnant women.
Iron tablets may not be needed unless a blood test demonstrates anaemia. Iron levels normally decrease during pregnancy as the blood becomes more dilute. Some women prefer to take a natural iron supplement, such as Floridix, which is available from health food stores. The body needs extra calcium during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, to enable the baby's bones to develop. Calcium absorption from the gut is more efficient during pregnancy and this should provide enough to meet requirements.