Nutrition and pregnancy

Nutrition and Pregnancy

A pregnant woman

Nutrition and pregnancy refers to the nutrient intake, and dietary planning that is undertaken before, during and after pregnancy. Nutrition of the fetus begins at conception. For this reason, the nutrition of the mother is important from before conception (probably several months before) as well as throughout pregnancy and breast feeding.

Importance of Nutrition During Pregnancy

An adequate intake of macronutrients and micronutrients during pregnancy promotes these processes and may prevent disease states such as preeclampsia and preterm birth.

Nutritional Needs During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the diet must provide enough nutrients for the mother and the growing fetus. This includes higher amounts of folic acid, calcium, iron, protein, and other nutrients.

Folic Acid

Folic acid, also known as folate, is very important because it can help to prevent birth defects in the baby's brain and spine. Foods rich in folic acid include leafy green vegetables, fortified cereals, and citrus fruits.

Calcium

Calcium is important for the healthy development of the baby's teeth, bones, heart, nerves, and muscles. When a pregnant woman does not consume enough calcium, the mineral will be drawn from the mother's stores in her bones and given to the baby. Foods rich in calcium include dairy products, broccoli, and kale.

Iron

Iron is important for the production of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to other cells. During pregnancy, the amount of blood in the mother's body increases, so she needs more iron to make more hemoglobin. Iron-rich foods include red meat, poultry, fish, legumes, and iron-fortified cereals.

Eating a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet during pregnancy can help to protect the health of the mother and the baby. It is important to eat a variety of foods to get all the nutrients you need. The food pyramid can be a good guide for understanding the types of food you should be eating and in what quantities.

See Also

• Pregnancy
• Diet (nutrition)
• Prenatal care