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Commentary - Volume 43, Issue 3 2023
The significance of diet during pregnancy: Its impact on fetal development and maternal health
Abstract: A balanced diet during pregnancy is crucial for the overall well-being of both the mother and her unborn child. Proper nutrition supports optimal fetal growth and development, helps in preventing complications, and contributes to long-term health benefits for both individuals. Understanding its importance enables women to make informed dietary choices that positively impact their own health while ensuring a healthy start for their offspring.
Nutritional requirements during pregnancy:
During pregnancy, the mother's body undergoes significant changes requiring increased intake of essential nutrients:
Macronutrients: Carbohydrates provide energy, proteins d in fetal growth and development, and fats support organ formation and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Micronutrients: Folic acid, iron, calcium, iodine, and vitamin D are critical for neural tube closure, blood production, bone health, thyroid function, and immune system strength.
Effects on fetal development:
A nutritious diet during pregnancy directly influences fetal growth and development:
Adequate intake of essential nutrients supports proper organ formation, optimal birth weight, and reduces the risk of developmental abnormalities.
Research indicates that prenatal omega-3 fatty acid intake is linked to improved cognitive function in children; foods rich in omega-3s like fatty fish or fortified products can benefit brn development.
Benefits for maternal health:
A balanced diet helps prevent pregnancy complications:
It lowers risks such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.
It supports optimal blood sugar control, blood pressure regulation, and overall maternal health.
Proper nutrition ds in weight management during pregnancy, reducing the risk of excessive weight gn which can lead to complications.
Dietary recommations for pregnant women:
To achieve this balance:
Include whole grns, lean proteins, healthy fats, and a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet.
Avoid overconsumption of processed foods, sugary snacks, or high-fat items.
Prenatal supplements like folic acid, iron, and calcium are recommed but should be taken under medical guidance.
The significance of diet during pregnancy:
Understanding its importance enables pregnant women to make informed decisions about their nutrition, promoting a healthy pregnancy and setting a positive foundation for their child's lifelong health. This knowledge empowers them to ensure both their own well-being and the optimal development of their unborn baby.
Author Information:
Wang FLEISCHHACKER*
Department of Food and Nutrition, National Health Institute Dr Ricardo Jorge, Lisboa, Portugal
*Correspondence: Wang FLEISCHHACKER, Department of Food and Nutrition, National Health Institute Dr Ricardo Jorge, Lisboa, Portugal,
Citation: Wang F 2023 The importance of diet during pregnancy: Impacts on the developing baby and maternal health. Clinical Nutrition and Hospital Dietetics Volume 43, Issue 3.
Conflicts of Interest: None.
Funding Statement: This work was supported by funder's name under grant number grant number.
Conflict of Interest Statement: The author has no conflict of interest to declare in relation to .
Copyright ? Wang FLEISCHHACKER. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
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Maternal Health during Pregnancy Balanced Pregnancy Diet Importance Fetal Development Nutrition Impact Prenatal Omega 3 Benefits Children Preventing Complications with Proper Diet Nutritional Recommendations for Pregnant Women