Balchem, a leading global manufacturer of specialty ingredients for human nutrition and health is shining a spotlight on a recently updated systematic review and meta-analysis by Cochrane on the effects of iron supplementation in pregnancy.1 This review reinforces the critical role of iron supplementation both during and beyond pregnancy, underscoring essential benefits for maternal and infant health. As well as strengthening the importance of prenatal iron supplementation for reducing maternal anemia, the review also sheds light on the positive effects on infant birth weight – opening up new growth avenues for brands in the women’s health sector.
Unlocking the benefits of iron for moms and babies
Iron deficiency is the leading cause of anemia, affecting a significant proportion of pregnant women worldwide. Globally, 36% of mothers-to-be experience anemia, of which 40% result from iron deficiency.2 Even among pregnant women without anemia, up to 80% may be iron deficient by the third trimester.3 Beyond the health risks for the mothers, including increased susceptibility to infections and fainting,1 iron deficiency can also limit their ability to supply iron in sufficient quantities to their babies, with effects on the infants’ growth, cognitive development and functioning.2
The updated analysis from Cochrane expands on a previous 2015 review, using a new screening tool for scientific integrity and trustworthiness from Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth. Six new studies were included for a total of 57 randomized, placebo-controlled trials, involving 48,971 pregnant women from 27 countries.1 In line with the 2015 report, the review found that daily iron supplementation during pregnancy reduces maternal anemia and iron deficiency around their due date, compared with placebo or no supplementation.1 Additionally, the new meta-analysis allowed authors to examine the impacts of maternal iron supplementation on infant outcomes. Here, the study revealed that women taking iron supplements during pregnancy were probably at lower risk of delivering babies with low birthweight (<2500 g).
“This meta-analysis underscores the critical role of iron for women’s health, highlighting the need for iron supplements that are effective, safe and tolerable for pregnant women,” comments Eric Ciappio, PhD, RD, Senior Manager, Nutrition Science, Balchem HNH. “Iron is becoming increasingly popular in pre- and post-natal supplements. However, to ensure that mothers and babies get the full health benefits from this mineral, choosing the right iron form is key. Only by prioritizing science-backed solutions, can we truly meet the needs of women, ensuring they have access to the nutrients necessary for a healthy pregnancy and the best start for their babies.”
The iron form matters
The importance of effective and tolerable supplement formulation was also emphasized by the authors of the Cochrane review, who stated “In order to improve the success of iron supplementation as a public health intervention, it is important to consider accessibility to supplementation and adherence.”1 The use of conventional iron salts during pregnancy, such as ferrous sulfate, is often associated with gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. In fact, data shows that ferrous sulfate supplementation during pregnancy can result in more than three times greater odds of GI upset versus placebo,4 which may put consumers off taking them. Ferrous Bisglycinate demonstrates significantly greater bioavailability and tolerability when used during pregnancy compared to conventional iron forms.5
“Supplementation with Ferrous Bisglycinate – the chelated iron form that powers Albion® Minerals Ferrochel® – was shown in a meta-analysis by Fischer et al. to provide greater improvements in hemoglobin status among pregnant women and reduce GI events by 64% compared to other iron salts.5 This enhanced efficacy is due to the chelation process, whereby the iron minerals are shielded by amino acids which protect them from the environment in the body, supporting superior absorption and optimal tolerability.” Ciappio explains, “By prioritizing the right form of iron, brands can differentiate themselves, formulating high-quality solutions that improve maternal and infant health outcomes that can effectively improve iron status while being gentle on the GI tract.”
To find out more about how Balchem’s Ferrochel® can help create premium prenatal supplements, visit: Iron | Human Nutrition and Health (balchem.com)
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