Pregnant women Nutrition
It is well known that the pregnant woman should pay attention to her health by following a balanced diet. We will mention the foods that we recommend to eat at each stage of pregnancy, as well as some tips and advices regarding foods to avoid during pregnancy.
It is important that pregnant women follow a balanced diet during pregnancy as this keeps the mother in a healthy weight and in turn enhances the mother's chances of having a healthy child and reduces the risk of postpartum health problems.
A balanced diet reduces the risk of anemia and a lack of essential vitamins for maternal and fetal health, which reduces the incidence of congenital malformations. The lack of folic acid available in dark green vegetables has a role in increasing the risk of neural tube malformations. Folic acid should be taken three months before pregnancy and continue after pregnancy.
A balanced diet ensures that the fetus gets enough protein, which is the first element in building muscles, hair, nails, bones, brain tissue and blood.
And do not forget that it is necessary for the pregnant mother to drink four cups of calcium-fortified milk daily because it has a key role to build bones and teeth.
The following are important steps to follow regarding diet during the whole period of pregnancy:
Nutrition of pregnant women in the first trimester of pregnancy:
The first months of pregnancy are accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, anorexia and nausea and you can overcome those by the following:
- Divide your meals into 4-6 snacks.
- Drink plenty of liquids, especially water.
- Eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Eat foods that are easily digested and low in fat.
- Concentrate on fruits, vegetables, dairy products and milk.
Nutrition of pregnant women from the fourth month till the end of pregnancy:
During this period, pregnant women regain their appetite, so choose the right food necessary for the growth of the fetus and maintaining the health of the mother. The most important of these foods are meat, chicken, eggs and legumes because they contain protein and have a key role in the formation of the fetus and its muscles and focus on milk and dairy products rich in calcium to form the bones of the fetus and prevent the pregnant woman from osteoporosis.
The pregnant mother is advised to focus on whole grain carbohydrates, whole wheat and fiber-rich oats that reduce the constipation during pregnancy.
Dr Najeeb Layyous F.R.C.O.G
Consultant Obstetrician, Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist