|
|
| NUTRITION DURING PREGNANCY |
|
 |
| |
|
Adequate nutrition is important for ensuring smooth
and safe completion of a pregnancy. Now that you're a mum-to-be, eating
right during pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for yourself
and your baby. A healthy and nutritious diet contributes to a successful
pregnancy by promoting adequate growth and development of your baby,
as well as reduces pregnancy complications and discomforts.
|
| "You
need folic acid to help your baby make new
cells and prevent birth defects" |
|
|
The key to good nutrition is a well-balanced
diet which can be achieved by eating a variety of food. Every diet
should include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals.
Good sources of proteins include lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs
and dairy products. Carbohydrates include bread, cereals, potatoes,
rice and pasta. Go for high fibre varieties such as wholemeal bread
and brown rice. Fats come from butter, milk and dairy products
while vitamins can be found in fruits and vegetables.
|
|
|
|
While a daily vitamin supplement is no substitute
for a healthy diet, most women need supplements to make sure they
get adequate levels of minerals. Take vitamin supplements on a
health care provider's recommendation or check with your doctor
before taking any vitamins, herbs or other supplements that are
not prescribed for you.
|
| |
|
To ensure all the nutritional needs are met,
attention should also be paid to calcium, iron and
folic acid. Calcium helps to maintain bone density
and iron is necessary for blood to carry oxygen. You should start
taking folic acid if you are planning to become pregnant and once
pregnant, continue taking it during your pregnancy.
Pregnant women
in particular need a good supply of folic acid which is used by
the developing baby. Folic acid helps your baby make new
cells and prevent birth defects like spina bifida.
|
| |
|
Knowing what to avoid can also help you make the healthiest
choice for you and your baby. Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs
during pregnancy, which may cause birth defects and other problems
for the baby. You may want to avoid or limit your caffeine intake
during pregnancy as caffeine stimulates the heart and brain,
and is an addictive substance. Instead of drinking regular coffee,
try coffee that's decaffeinated. Caffeine is also found in tea,
chocolate, soda and medicine. Ensure you read labels on food,
drinks and medicine to know how much caffeine you're getting.
|
| |
|
Do not try to lose weight during pregnancy as
both you and your baby need the proper nutrients in order to be
healthy. If you are unsure about your diet or have specific questions,
ask your doctor who will address any dietary concerns you may have.
|
| |
Disclaimer:
While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of facts, the
articles and information above must never be construed as giving
professional health advice and as such Kurnia does not give any
warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness
or other assurances as to the content appearing in the above
article. Kurnia cannot be held responsible for any losses, injury
or death resulting from the use of the above information. |
|
|
|
|