The food that the mother consumes forms the intake for the foetus as it thrives on the food intake of the mother. Hence it is necessary for the mother to consume nutritious food for the foetus to grow in a healthy manner and for herself too to make her pregnancy a healthy and enjoyable period.
The growth of a baby inside the mother’s womb is directly related to the baby’s health after birth. Hence, a good diet for the mother during the nine months of pregnancy is essential to ensure healthy life of the child. So young mothers-to-be must take special care about their diet and ensure proper nutrition during pregnancy, for their unborn baby.
For the formation of new cells, tissues and bones of the baby, the most important nutrients to be provided and supplied are sufficient amounts of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin B), calcium and minerals.
Milk or curd is a must as it is a rich source of protein, vitamin A, B, D, E and calcium. Other foods rich in protein, vitamins and minerals are dal and pulses. Non-vegetarian food like eggs are also high in protein. At least three glasses of milk should be consumed in a day. Avoiding milk can have adverse effect on the baby resulting in bow legs, knocked knees and poor teeth. Plenty of fruits and vegetables also are good source of vitamins and minerals. Green leafy vegetables (palak, keerai, etc) are rich in calcium and vitamins A, B and C.
Many pregnant women suffer from nausea and vomiting. To cope with this, they tend to avoid food completely. This condition usually starts in the second or third month and continues till the fifth or sixth. This is a very important period in the growth and the development of the baby. So, it becomes important to have a proper nutritious diet.
Proteins - An additional 15 gms/day of protein has to be supplied in the diet. Complete and good quality proteins in the form of milk, meat, egg and cheese along with legumes, pulses, nuts and whole grains will help.
Fats - The fetal organs already have stores of fat and so additional fat is not required. Nevertheless, essential fatty acids (EFA) should be supplied during pregnancy.
Minerals - Calcium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, sodium and iodine should be taken during pregnancy. The deficiency of these minerals leads to complications during pregnancy and has adverse effects on the fetus-infant. Vitamins - these nutrients have special roles to play in the
Vitamin D is essential for maternal calcium absorption and calcium metabolism of infant. Vitamin E helps in preventing abortions. Vitamin K helps in preventing neo natal
haemorrhages.
Vitamin B6 or Folic acid is very important to prevent macrocytic anaemia and promote normal fetal growth, as it prevents serious birth defects.
Fibres - A common problem during pregnancy is constipation. Therefore the diet should contain plenty of fibres in the form of whole fruits and vegetables, whole grain cereals, vegetable soups and whole pulses.
Water - a very important nutrient it keeps the body hydrated, prevents constipation,
haemorrhoids, oedema and flushes out any toxins that might be produced.
Read more: Diet During Pregnancy - Nutrients needed during pregnancy http://www.health-weight-loss-diet-plan.com/