Nutritional effects on pregnancy

During pregnancy, nutrition is more important than ever. Because a pregnant woman needs more of many important nutrients than a normal, non-pregnant woman. It should be noted that a lactating woman requires additional nutritional support. Therefore, the selection and consumption of healthy foods will help to give birth to healthy babies, i.e., babies with proper body weight and proper physiological functions. This also helps to maintain the health of pregnant women.

During pregnancy, one should take in some special nutrients, such as more folic acid, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. It is because folic acid prevents certain birth defects (e.g., brain, spine, or spinal cord). Normally, 400 mcg (micrograms) are needed per day, but during pregnancy and the lactating period, 600 mcg/day are required. Iron is another important mineral for the babies' growth and brain development.

Pregnancy increases the amount of blood in the mother's body; therefore, more iron is needed for the mother and for the growing baby. A pregnant woman should get 27 mg (milligrams) of iron a day. During pregnancy, calcium reduces the risk of preeclampsia (a serious medical condition that increases sudden blood pressure). This mineral also builds up the bones and teeth of babies. Pregnant adults and teenagers should get 1,000 and 1,300 mg of calcium a day, respectively.

Vitamin D helps calcium absorption, thus ensuring its proper functioning in our bodies. Both normal, pregnant, and lactating women should get 600 IU (international units) of vitamin D per day. Adequate water intake (hydration) is also an important concern during pregnancy.

In pregnancy, the body needs more water to stay hydrated and support the life inside the womb. So, drinking quality mineral water or enough fluids every day is very important.

However, we should keep in mind that taking too many of these supplements might be harmful. Vitamin A, for example, causes birth defects at extremely high levels, whereas vitamin D causes an increase in bone fracture rates. Other substances to avoid during pregnancy include: alcohol, fish containing high levels of mercury and contaminated foods (e.g., refrigerated smoked ; hot dogs; unpasteurised milk or juices; store-made salads, etc.).

Moreover, drinking high amounts of caffeine is also harmful for the fetus. Less than 200 mg of caffeine (about 12 ounces of coffee) has been recommended as a safe dose during pregnancy.

As a result, when selecting and purchasing diets for a pregnant lady, more consideration should be given. Consultation with a physician is highly suggested to guarantee a balanced diet and obtain particular vitamins and mineral supplements.

Dr Muhammad Torequl Islam is an Assistant Professor of Pharmacy at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University.

E-mail: dmt.islam@gmail.com

Tawhid Islam is a student of Pharmacy at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University.

E-mail: tawhidislam2021@yahoo.com