Optimal nutrition is vital for physical and cognitive growth, behavior and scholastic performance, health productivity and quality of life. “Nutrition in pregnancy is the single most powerful tool a mother has to shape the future health of her baby. every bite counts in building a foundation for life”
-LILY NICHOLS, Real food for Pregnancy: The science and wisdom of optimal Prenatal Nutrition
During pregnancy mother body undergo physiological changes, adequate intake of nutrients to ensure healthy development of fetal organs, support maternal energy needs and prevent pregnancy complications.
FETAL DEVELOPMENT:
Adequate and balanced nutrition is essential for the growth and development of the fetus. Nutrients such as folic acid, iron, calcium and protein are crucial for the formation of vital organs and systems. Deficiencies in these nutrients can lead to developmental issues such as neural tube defect, low birth weight and even preterm birth.
Folic Acid:
Critical for neural tube development, which become the brain and spinal cord. A deficiency can cause spina bifida.
Protein:
Support tissue growth for both mother and baby. It is crucial for the development of fetal tissues (brain).
Iron:
Vital for creating hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood.
Calcium:
Important for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth.
MATERNAL HEALTH AND WELL BEING
Proper nutrition can also aid in postpartum recovery, reducing the risk of postnatal depression and supporting the energy demands of breastfeeding
Omega 3 fatty acid:
Important for both the mother mental health and baby’s brain development.
Vitamin D:
Supports immune function and may reduce risk of preeclampsia (serious blood pressure issue in pregnancy)
Fiber:
Helps prevent constipation, a common issue in pregnancy.
Nutritional Supplement:
Balanced diet is the best way to get necessary nutrients, many women benefit from supplements that include
Prenatal Vitamins:
Provide a comprehensive mix of essential nutrients that might be missing from the diet.
Iron supplement:
To prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia
Calcium and Vitamin D supplement:
For bone health
Folic Acid Supplement and Vitamin B12 supplement:
Prevent neural tube defects.
REFERENCES:
- Dr Usama Zuhair, Calorics edition 4,2024
- Black, R.E, Micronutrients in Pregnancy, in Nutrition and Health in Developing Countries, 3rd ed., 2017
- Koletzko ,B ., Nutrition And Lifestyles for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding ,2014
