Taking care of Maternity Diet

Maternal nutrition is the foundation stone for a healthy offspring. Maternal health and appropriate nutrition have always been a public health goal. Food, being an integral part, serves the purpose of providing nutritional values.

What to eat?

The female body has enhanced nutritional needs during pregnancy. There is an additional requirement for both micronutrients and macronutrients to support bodily functions and foetal growth. Micronutrients are dietary components such as vitamins and minerals that are required in small amounts. Carbohydrates, proteins and fats are macronutrients required in larger amounts that provide calories or energy.

There is a need to consume more of each type of nutrient during pregnancy. Most pregnant women can meet these increased nutritional needs by choosing a diet that includes a variety of healthy foods.

Best gynaecologist doctor in Jaipur suggests for a diet consisting of various food groups like:

• Grains are a good source of energy.
• Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, fibre, along with water-soluble/ fat-soluble vitamins.
• Meats, eggs, nuts, and legumes provide the body with protein, folate, and iron.
• Dairy products are a great source of calcium and vitamin D.
• Fats and oils in the form of unsaturated fatty acids serve as store houses of energy.

What not to eat?

Pregnant mothers have to keep a cautious watch on what they eat and must avoid harmful foods and beverages. According to the Best Gynaecologist Doctor in Jaipur, foods that need to be completely avoided are alcohol in any form, undercooked meat, eggs or fish, processed meat, raw sprouts, unpasteurized milk and milk products and unwashed fruits and vegetables. It is advisable to attain positive health benefits from eating fish and shellfish which are lower in mercury such as shrimp, salmon and catfish.

Caffeine consumption has to be restricted as caffeine in large amounts from too much coffee and other caffeinated drinks may result in a baby with a low birth-weight. Fatty foods, junk foods and sweets should be taken occasionally in moderate quantities. Healthy food habituated during pregnancy, when carried over during lactation would enhance neonatal growth and development. Recommended supplements during pregnancy is also mandatory to overcome deficiencies during pregnancy. 

In some cases, pregnant mothers will need specific individualised diet plan. Consultation with the gynaecologist doctor in Jaipur would provide pregnant women for further guidance in case of medical conditions such as food allergies, food aversion/addiction and for clarifications on food myths and maternity health.