Biochemical iron status and intake in a population of pregnant women of Buenos Aires.

The iron (Fe) nutritional status was studied in 113 healthy pregnant women, age: 24.8 +/- 6.1 Ys. During the second trimester (gestational age: 16.9 +/- 3.8 weeks), a 24 h dietary recall was carried out and daily Fe intake was calculated, according to Latinoamerican and German Food Composition Tables. On the same day, hematocrit (Hct), hemoglobin (Hb), erythrocyte protoporphyrin (EP) and serum ferritin (SF) were determined in fasting blood samples. Mean daily Fe intake was 10.8 +/- 4.6 mg. The percentage of population with abnormal biochemical values was: Hb (g/dL) < 10.5: 2%; PE > 70 mu g/dL of red blood cells: 6.5%; SF (ng/mL) < 12: 6%; 12-20: 16%. According to the new recommendations of the American institute of Medicine, Fe supplementation would be necessary in women with SF < 20 ng/mL (22%). Therefore, the follow-up of iron stores would be necessary in those with SF > 20 ng/mL before Fe administration.