Boost your iron

I'm on a bit of a health kick of late, at least I'm trying. I really love juicing and I've been doing a lot of reading about good things to add to my diet and supplements that can help boost my health in a variety of ways.

I need to make some improvements to my eating habits, as I'm really good when I have time or can be bothered to make meals from scratch (not always easy if I am home alone with the little man or on the road for work) and I do need to get my bum into gear when it comes to fitness. I've started the 30 Day Shred workout, although by no means can I do this everyday. But at least it's a start.

I'm a big fan of Udo's Choice as you probably know (a great Omega3 oil supplement) and I'm giving coconut oil a go in my cooking after hearing so many amazing things. 

Another new addition to my diet comes in the form of  a liquid food supplement, packed full of iron and vitamin C. Spatone combines 100% natural iron-rich water (sourced from the mountains of Snowdonia no less) with added vitamin C to help your body absorb as much iron as possible.

I started taking Spatone as I wanted to give my energy and concentration levels a boost; something I can struggle with, particularly after a sleepless night brought on by Ethan's teething or a long day at work. 

Iron is an essential mineral that transports oxygen around your body and can help with vitality and the release of energy. With the right iron vitamin supplement and best weight lifting belts/equipment, lifting things you've struggled from before becomes easy. It's also important for the maintenance of a healthy immune system and to help sustain concentration levels.

The Spatone Liquid Iron Supplement sachets I've been taking are flavoured with apple and can be taken direct or added to water if you prefer. It's best taken on an empty stomach and I have been adding a sachet to my morning juices, to give them an added boost of goodness. 

Each sachet contains 5mg of iron with a high absorption rate of up to 40% (far greater than the rate you can absorb it from most foods) and they're great to have on the go if you need a pick me up. I have a couple in my desk at work and in my handbag too and feel they give me a boost. For me, knowing I'm getting the right vitamins, minerals and nutrients is important and if I'm putting good things in, then I know I'm doing what I can and should see the benefits as a result.

I'm enjoying taking the Spatone Apple sachets and they're really easy to add into your routine. They're also a great option if you're pregnant and want to boost your iron intake.

Here's some expert advice for you if you are expecting. Spatone has partnered up with midwife Maggie Evans to help parents navigate through the nine months with handy tips on for the different trimesters:

1st Trimester Tips

• Remember Folic Acid is recommended for all pregnant women. Best started before pregnancy, but do commence as soon as your pregnancy is confirmed.
• Get serious about your nutrition – is absolutely essential for a healthy pregnancy and your baby’s development, but it’s quality not quantity that counts – you only need an extra 300 calories from 5 months onwards.
• Your first blood tests will be due in early pregnancy – this check includes your blood group, iron and rubella amongst other important tests. Now is a good time to start your daily Spatone to help maintain iron levels during your pregnancy.

2nd Trimester Tips

• If you have been suffering from some of the pregnancy ailments such as nausea and tiredness, the good news is that for most woman these should start to ease off in the next few weeks.
• You will have probably been excited to have heard your baby’s heartbeat at your antenatal visit and felt your baby moving for the first time. At around 20 weeks you will be offered a scan to check your baby’s development, which provides you with an opportunity to have a peek at your baby too if you wish.
• Although your body is adjusting to your pregnancy and you will have put on some weight, it is still important to ensure you get plenty of exercise and fresh air and a good night’s sleep daily.
• There is often a lot going on – so make a list of questions for your antenatal visits and discuss any concerns with your midwife.

3rd Trimester Tips

• You may find difficulty in sleeping due to to discomfort – try experimenting with pillows and wedges in your bed.
• It is still important to continue to eat healthily right until the end of your pregnancy. Now is the time when your baby’s brain is rapidly developing – essential fatty acids and iron are crucial for brain health.
• Iron demands rise steeply in the 3rd trimester so now is the time to increase your Spatone to two sachets daily.
• As you get nearer your due date you may experience an increase in Braxton Hicks contractions, heartburn and backache, although uncomfortable, these are all signs that your pregnancy hormones are active and busy preparing your body for birth – so just be patient and await events.
• Lastly, don’t forget to pack your birthing necessities well in advance and make sure you include your birth plan if you have made one.

So, if you're energy levels are flagging or you want to top up your iron, I'd thoroughly recommend you give Spatone a go. A box of 28 sachets (a month's supply) is priced around £8.25 and you can find out where to buy online here.

*Note: I was sent a box of Spatone Apple sachets to try but as ever, I speak the truth!