Dietary needs of pregnant women
Pregnant women need to pay more attention to their diet than the average person, because the mother needs to provide adequate nutrition for the fetus. You should consume a variety of nutrients during pregnancy, including protein, iron, calcium, and folic acid. In addition, the intake of foods containing dietary fiber should be enhanced to maintain normal intestinal function.
Protein-rich foods
Protein is a key nutrient for building new cells and meeting metabolic needs. Pregnant women need extra protein to support healthy fetal growth. Good sources of protein include eggs, fish, lean meats, cheese, tofu and beans. Pregnant women should especially avoid eating sashimi, raw meat, and uncooked protein sources to prevent microbial infection.
Foods containing iron and calcium
Iron is one of the essential components needed to build children\’s brain and motor cells. Pregnant women should consume enough iron to ensure normal fetal development. Meat, eggs, fish, whole wheat bread, breakfast cereals and other foods contain high iron content. Calcium is also necessary during pregnancy, and pregnant women can get enough calcium by drinking milk and eating foods such as dairy products, green vegetables, beans, and nuts.
Foods rich in folic acid
Folic acid can effectively prevent neural tube defects in babies, so pregnant women should consume appropriate amounts of folic acid through their diet. Major sources of folate include dark green vegetables, citrus fruits, nuts, whole grains and folate-fortified foods such as breads and cereals. It is recommended that pregnant women consume 400 milligrams of folic acid per day, which means they need to get it through diet or supplements.
Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Pregnant women should avoid certain foods to reduce the risk of foodborne illness, infection, and hormonal imbalances. These foods include uncooked meat and eggs, unprocessed milk and milk products, sashimi, raw shellfish, canned foods and lead ceramics. In addition, pregnant women should reduce their caffeine and alcohol intake to avoid adverse effects on the fetus.
Conclusion: During pregnancy, special attention should be paid to the quality and diversity of diet. Pregnant women should pay attention to balancing the intake of nutrients to promote healthy fetal development while avoiding harmful foods. By adhering to healthy eating habits, pregnant women can ensure a healthy pregnancy and smooth delivery.
