According to a recent study, women who have low iron intake during pregnancy are at a higher risk of having a child with autism.

The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis, found that women who had low iron intake during their pregnancy were 40 percent more likely to have a child who developed autism than women who had normal iron levels.

What is Iron?

Iron is a mineral that is necessary for the body to function properly. It is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

Iron is also important for brain development, and the proper functioning of the immune system. Pregnant women require more iron than non-pregnant women because the developing fetus requires iron for its own growth and development.

The Study

The study included over 200,000 women and their children. The researchers looked at the mother’s iron intake during pregnancy and compared it to the child’s risk of developing autism.

The study found that the risk of autism was highest in women who had the lowest iron intake during pregnancy.

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Why is Iron Important during Pregnancy?

Iron is important during pregnancy because it is necessary for the developing fetus to receive the proper nutrients it needs to grow and develop. Iron is responsible for carrying oxygen to the developing fetus, which is crucial for brain development.

If a pregnant woman is not getting enough iron, her baby may not get enough oxygen, which can lead to developmental problems.

How to Get Enough Iron during Pregnancy

There are several ways to ensure that you are getting enough iron during pregnancy:.

• Take a prenatal vitamin that includes iron
• Eat foods that are high in iron, such as spinach, red meat, and fortified cereals
• Cook with cast iron pans, which can add iron to your food
• Avoid drinking tea or coffee with meals, as they can inhibit the absorption of iron

Conclusion

Pregnant women need to ensure that they are getting enough iron to support the healthy development of their baby. The new study highlights the importance of iron intake during pregnancy and its possible impact on the risk of autism.

By taking steps to increase their iron intake, pregnant women can potentially reduce the risk of autism in their children.