Pregnancy And Diet / Diet During Pregnancy

The diet during, even before, pregnancy has to be rich in calories, proteins, vitamins & minerals and balanced. The needs vary in the three trimesters. Generally the gestation period in homosapiens (human) is approximately 40 weeks measured from the mother's last menstrual cycle.

Energy - the energy needs of the body increase manifold and are increased by 300 kcals per day. Trimester wise an additional calorie intake is recommended as below:-

1st trimester (1 to 12 weeks) - 10 kcals/day
2nd trimester (13 to 27 weeks) - 90 kcals/day
3rd trimester (27 to 40 weeks) - 200 kcals /day.

These calories are needed to cater to the growing demands of the fetus and the mother as well as to accumulate fat stores which act as reserves during lactation and when otherwise needed. Considerable weight gain about 10-14 kgs during pregnancy isf desirable.

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 physiological state of the mother and fetus.
Vitamin A improves vision and maintains the integrity of cells.
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.