Hepcidin and Glucose Metabolism

This study investigates the relationship between a hormone called hepcidin (which regulates iron in the body) and blood sugar (glucose) metabolism in pregnant women. It specifically focuses on the period between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy, which is when gestational diabetes screening typically occurs. Researchers want to understand how iron levels and hepcidin interact with blood sugar regulation. During pregnancy, the body's need for iron increases significantly. Hepcidin is the key hormone that controls how much iron is absorbed and used. Researchers suspect that disruptions in iron balance may influence insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, possibly contributing to gestational diabetes. This study will measure these relationships carefully under controlled conditions. **You may be eligible if...** - You are a pregnant woman between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation - You are carrying a single baby (singleton pregnancy) - Your pre-pregnancy BMI was below 27.5 kg/m² - Your hemoglobin level is above 8.0 g/dL - You are willing to either temporarily pause iron supplements or take a specific multivitamin for 14 days **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have received an iron infusion in the past 6 months - You are severely anemic (hemoglobin below 8.0 g/dL) - You have an acute or chronic illness - You are on long-term medications - You have a medical condition known to affect iron levels - You smoke **Talk to your doctor** about your iron levels, pregnancy health, and whether participating in a dietary iron research study is safe for you and your baby.