Nutrition during pregnancy: why is it important?
What is the importance of nutrition during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is one of the periods of greatest nutritional vulnerability in a woman's life. Energy and nutrient requirements are increased as a result of fetal growth and the synthesis of maternal tissues, such as the increase in uterine size, hypertrophy of the mammary glands, and the accumulation of fat reserves.
The mother's nutritional status prior to pregnancy and the eating habits acquired during pregnancy will determine this period of the life cycle.
Nutritional advice for pregnancy
To prevent premature births and possible developmental problems in the newborn, it is important to maintain a sufficient, balanced and varied diet during pregnancy.
It is important to monitor that gestational weight gain is within a recommended range, since there is a relationship between maternal weight and fetal development and growth.
- La malnutrition due to excess increases the risk of births due to Caesarean section, diabetes mellitus, neural tube defects, fetal macrosomia, etc.
- While an increase in underweight It is a risk factor for spontaneous abortion, premature birth and low birth weight.
Nutrition during pregnancy to avoid micronutrient deficiencies
In relation to micronutrient deficiency, the following must be taken into account:
- Adequate iron levelsAnemia during pregnancy is directly associated with an elevated risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and maternal and neonatal mortality.
- La intake of foods rich in calcium should be sufficient to achieve normal fetal development without having to use maternal bone reserves. Pregnant women should avoid consuming foods that interfere with calcium metabolism.
- El folic acid consumption In adequate amounts during the pre-pregnancy period (from two months before and through the first two months of pregnancy). Folic acid significantly reduces the risk of neural tube defects and other birth defects.
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If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized department in this area. You can request more information by calling 91 387 51 72/73/74 or schedule an in-person appointment with top specialists.