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Poor Nutrition During Pregnancy

There have been many sponsored research programs on what are the possible side effects of bad nutrition on pregnant women and their babies. The results are not very encouraging. During pregnancy, what you eat not only directly impacts the growth of the baby; it also can impact the development of your child later on. Eating well is mandatory during your pregnancy. Poor nutrition during pregnancy can also have long term implications like cholesterol, diabetes, obesity for your child.

Mothers run the risk of child mortality if nutrition is not good during the pregnancy. The mother-to-be should not only be worried about physical disabilities in the child but also the possibility of neurological disorders cannot be ruled out. Over 23 per cent of babies born are born below their optimal weight because of deprived nutrition. Incomplete nutrition leads to underdeveloped brains. Underdeveloped brains can eventually lead to degenerative diseases later in life.

Step By Step

A pregnant woman needs to make sure that not only is her diet a balanced one, she should also supplement with additions as needed. You should be careful about over-supplementing. Remember to consult your doctor or your dietitian.

The first trimester is the very crucial where nutrition is concerned. Food and its nutrition protect the embryo and the placenta till the baby forms. Once the baby forms, it provides nutrition to strengthen the baby and grow till it is born. In each trimester, your nutrition needs change. Your doctor can guide how to increase your nutrition by eating wisely.

Mothers have to increase their calorie requirement gradually, ensuring that the right foods help increase the count. Add good fats to your diet, more protein (preferably low fat) and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Increase your milk intake. Iron is also important. As your body is using its own reserves to help the baby grow, eating well is necessary. Folic acid supplementation is usually quite necessary. Vitamin B12, vitamin D, magnesium and zinc are also needed additionally for the baby to grow properly. An increase in omega 3 fatty acids is also needed. Pregnant women often need to control their sodium intake by trimester three because it leads to excess water retention.

Turn Down that Drink and Resist the Smokes

Quit smoking and avoid consuming alcohol for these 9 months. Such stimulants have been known to cause permanent cognitive issues in babies. Drugs and medication dependencies need to be addressed as well. Continuing with these habits during pregnancy can be dangerous to the baby.

Some foods are considered a complete no-no. It's best to avoid all kinds of junk food, spicy food, outside food for hygiene and nutritional reasons. You can eat them once in a way but err on the lower side of moderation. Immunity of pregnant women is also lower so they need to be additionally careful. Mothers who are on restrictive diets like vegan or macrobiotic should bring it to the attention of their doctors or consider a normal diet for the duration of the pregnancy, unless an intolerance is involved.

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