A pregnancy woman carries her baby from the time of conception for approximately nine months when the fetus becomes mature enough to live outside the mother's womb. During these nine months, the fetus obtains its nutrition solely from the mother. Maternal nutrition is therefore an important factor, which helps regulate fetal growth and contribute to the resulting birth weight. because fetal development relies on nutrients in the correct amounts, the mother's diet must therefore be well balanced and in adequate amounts (not too much and not too little)
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The goal of good nutrition in pregnancy is to ensure:
Appropriate weight gain, that pregnancy reaches term without any complications. That the weight and condition of the new born are within normal limits. Generally, there is an increased energy expenditure and utilization of other nutrients for: Reposition of new tissue both in the mother and fetus. Increased metabolic expenditure to maintain the new tissues.
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It is obvious that the food intake of the pregnancy woman is expected to increase above that of the non-pregnancy woman but she should not literally eat for two. There should be at least there main meals with snacks in between. A well balanced dirt must comprise a good source of each of the following:
proteins..Carbohydrates..Fat..Vitamins..Minerals.
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PROTEIN
It is important for building and repair of all tissues in both the mother and fetus. Examples include the uterus, breast, placenta, and amnion. An additional 30g per day of protein is recommended. Sources include meat, poultry, fish, milk, cheese, legumes and nuts.
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CARBOHYDRATES
Supplies energy and so has protein-sparing effects. Sources include grains and tubers.
FAT
This also supplies energy and provides fatty acids essential for myelination of nerves and membrane synthesis. It is also a carrier for fat-soluble vitamins A,D,E and K. Sources include oil, butter, margarine, salad cream.
CALCIUM
It helps in the development of fetal skeleton and tooth bud. It is important that the mother has adequate demineralization of her bones may occur) to meet the fetus' calcium needs. Calcium deficiency can contribute to osteoporosis in later life.Good sources include milk, cheese, eggs and fish eaten with the bones.
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THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR PREGNANT WOMAN, IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE WHO IS PREGNANT PLEASE TELL HER ABOUT THIS. SO THAT IT CAN HELP HER...