Work

Nutritional status of iron and vitamin D in postpartum women in northern Taiwan

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background Postpartum women are at increased risk of iron and vitamin D deficiencies due to physiological demands, blood loss during delivery, and limited sun exposure during the confinement period. The aimed of this study was to assess the iron and vitamin D nutritional status of women at six weeks postpartum in northern Taiwan and to examine its associations with dietary intake and nutritional supplement use. Methods This cross-sectional study included 120 women at six weeks postpartum in northern Taiwan. Dietary intake was assessed using 24-h dietary recall, and supplement use was recorded. Hematological and biochemical parameters, including hemoglobin, ferritin, and serum 25(OH)D 3 , were measured. Results The prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia was 5.0% and 6.7%, respectively, while 75% of women exhibited vitamin D insufficiency or deficiency. Supplement users had a significantly lower prevalence of iron deficiency and vitamin D deficiency compared with non-users. Conclusion Our findings suggest that dietary intake alone is insufficient to meet postpartum micronutrient requirements and that supplementation plays a critical role in maintaining adequate nutritional status. These results highlight the need for targeted nutritional strategies and updated dietary recommendations to support maternal recovery and health after childbirth.

Source: Frontiers in Nutrition

DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1701550

Authors: Sing-Chung Li, Yi-Ling Chen, Chiao-Ming Chen, Li-Yi Tsai, Shu-Chi Mu

Institutions: Taipei Medical University, Shin Kong WHS Memorial Hospital, Shih Chien University, Fu Jen Catholic University

Language: English

Topic: Iron Metabolism and Disorders

Subfield: Hematology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,801