Nutritional Science & Dietetics

Nutrition in Pregnancy and Lactation

Pregnancy is a demanding physiological state. In India, it is observed that diets of women from the low socioeconomic groups are essentially similar during prepregnant, pregnant and lactating periods. Consequently, there is widespread maternal malnutrition leading to high prevalence of low birth weight infants and very high maternal mortality. Additional foods are required to improve weight gain in pregnancy (10-12 Kg) and birth weight of infants (about 3 Kg). It is hence important to ensure provision of extra food and healthcare to pregnant and lactating women

• Eat more food during pregnancy.
• Eat more whole grains, sprouted grams and fermented foods.
• Take milk/meat/eggs in adequate amounts.
• Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits.
• Avoid superstitions and food taboos.
• Do not use alcohol and tobacco. Take medicines only when prescribed.
• Take iron, folate and calcium supplements regularly, after 14-16 weeks of pregnancy and continue the same during lactation.