Iron

I was feeling really tired a few weeks ago and after a doctor's visit I found out that my iron was low. The levels were perfectly fine in the beginning of my pregnancy but because of the growth of the baby and the amount of extra blood in pregnancy itself, it just got low.

"What Does Iron Do? 

The most important function of iron in the body is to carry oxygen in the red blood cells to the muscles. Iron gives blood its characteristic red color. Certain enzymes require iron, and iron is essential to produce energy." more 

I haven't studied Iron in a while so like most people I just related energy to protein. It's amazing how much iron can contribute to your energy level. The doctor put me on a supplement and I'm trying to incorporate foods rich in iron in my diet more aggressively (notice, I say trying). After starting to take the supplements I feel like I got some of my energy back. The funny thing about the doctor is that I'm not sure if they test you again to see where your levels are a few weeks after that first diagnosis. Who knows. My body is steady changing as this baby gets ready to make his entrance to the world. My belly is still enlarging. I noticed that my ankles were a little swollen yesterday (that's a first) so I tried to keep them up and keep the waters flowing in my system as usual. Apparently you have to drink a lot of water with the iron supplement as well but water is no problem with us. A friend and I went to the grocery store yesterday and I went in search of an iron enriched cereal. Total seems to be a good one: 18.0 mg in 1 cup. Raisin Bran has the same amount. Thank God for reading labels!

I am happy to announce that MY NURSERY IS READY as we celebrate 37 weeks of pregnancy!!! It happened yesterday, it was beautiful! I didn't step there for days earlier this week but because we had the day off we decided we were going to get that project finished. It's just a joy to know that we don't have to worry about getting that room ready any more. What's next? Hurry up and pack my hospital bag - a project for today :)

I ask for your prayers this weekend as we work and as we get closer to see my son. He's healthy and fine. With God's help we can and will make the end of this journey.