essential nutrients for pregnant women

"Pregnant women need to meet their nutritional needs to maintain the health of themselves and their fetus. There are several substances that pregnant women need to get every day."

Thedoctormedical , united states – Nutrition for pregnant women is important to support the development of the fetus in the womb. Not only that, fulfilling pregnant women's nutrition can also maintain health and prevent pregnancy problems.

Well, there are several substances that a mother must fulfill during pregnancy because these compounds play a major role in the development of the baby's organs. Check out the following explanation for more information!

Know the Nutrition for Pregnant Women that Need to be Fulfilled
Here are some important nutrients that mothers need to pay attention to during pregnancy:

1. Folic acid

Vitamin B9 aka folic acid is a nutrient that mothers need to fulfill during pregnancy. This substance helps in the formation of red blood cells and the development of the nervous system of the fetus

Folic acid deficiency can increase the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus. Food sources rich in folic acid include green leafy vegetables (such as spinach and kale), nuts, seeds, oranges and liver. In some cases, doctors may recommend folic acid supplements.

2. Iron

Apart from folic acid, pregnant women also need to meet the needs of iron. These nutrients also help form red blood cells and transport oxygen to the body. During pregnancy, iron requirements increase due to increased blood volume. Iron deficiency can cause anemia in pregnant women.

Foods rich in iron include red meat, poultry, fish, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables. You may need iron supplements if your needs are not met through food.

3. Calcium

Calcium intake is important for the formation of fetal bones and teeth, as well as maintaining the health of the mother's bones. Foods rich in calcium include dairy products, cheese, yogurt, alkaline fish and dark green vegetables. If your intake of calcium through food is insufficient, your doctor may recommend calcium supplements.

4. Protein

If the nutrition of pregnant women plays a role in the growth and development of fetal cells. Protein requirements increase during pregnancy. Good sources of protein include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts and seeds.

5. Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), function to help the development of the fetal brain and eyes. Foods rich in omega-3s include fatty fish (such as salmon, sardines and tuna), nuts and seeds.

Fish oil supplements may also be considered. However, consult your doctor first before consuming it.

Reasons for the Importance of Fulfilling Nutrition for Pregnant Women
There are a number of reasons why pregnant women are required to meet their nutritional needs. The reasons include:

1. Growth and development of the fetus

Adequate and balanced nutrition is essential for the healthy growth and development of the fetus. These substances help the formation of important organs, the nervous system, and other body tissues in the fetus.

2. Health of pregnant women

During pregnancy , the mother's body requires additional nutrients to support the physical and physiological changes that occur. Nutrition for pregnant women helps maintain maternal health, prevent anemia, increase energy, and reduce the risk of complications.

3. Prevention of birth defects

Some nutrients, such as folic acid, have an important role in preventing birth defects in the fetus. Folic acid, for example, helps in the formation of the neural tube in the fetus. Deficiency of these substances can increase the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida.

4. Healthy bones and teeth

Nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D are important for the development of strong fetal bones and teeth. During pregnancy, the fetus relies on the mother's supply of calcium for bone growth.

If calcium intake is insufficient, the mother's body may experience calcium deficiency, which can result in decreased bone density and an increased risk of osteoporosis later in life.

5. Nutrition for pregnant women to maintain energy and stamina

Pregnant women need additional energy because the body is working hard to support the growth of the fetus and the physical changes that occur.

Adequate and balanced nutrition, including carbohydrates, fats and proteins, provides energy and helps maintain stamina during pregnancy.

Given the importance of nutrition during pregnancy, it is important to eat a balanced diet, eat a variety of nutritious foods, and in some cases, consult a doctor or nutritionist to ensure that specific nutritional needs are being met.