Food during pregnancy - nutrition

As mentioned in the previous presentation, nutritional guidelines prior to pregnancy should be oriented to ensure a good nutritional status in the woman for the onset of pregnancy. These guidelines should be maintained throughout fertile life to prevent a nutritional deficiency from compromising an unplanned pregnancy.

Pregnancy is a physiological process of adaptation whose main function is to provide the fetus with the nutrients necessary for proper growth and development. Therefore, a woman's nutritional needs increase and change at different stages of pregnancy.

Why pay special attention to early pregnancy?

The first trimester of pregnancy is a vulnerable stage from a nutritional point of view, since in many cases the woman does not yet know she is pregnant, and the baby's organs and systems are already forming inside her. These processes require a large amount of nutrients, especially vitamins, minerals and water.

Nutrient deficiencies at this stage can cause irreversible damage. For example, a lack of folic acid can increase the risk of malformations in the fetus' spine and brain, affecting its quality of life permanently. Likewise, the fetus is more susceptible to the effects of alcohol, drugs and certain medications.

Physiological changes in pregnancy that affect nutritional needs

• Hormonal changes that direct nutrients to the placenta to promote fetal development.

• Increase in the size of organs such as the uterus, breasts, heart, etc.

• Increase in blood volume, which reduces hemoglobin concentration.

• Increased cholesterol and other lipid fractions in the blood.

• Alteration of renal function, which increases urine output and causes increased loss of water and electrolytes.

• Preparation of breast tissue for lactation, with significant increase in size.

• Variations in appetite and digestive and biliary functions.

• Growth of the uterus that may press on the colon and cause constipation.

Weight gain during pregnancy

Pregnant women's weight should be monitored by a specialist, since both excessive and insufficient weight gain can cause problems for the mother and baby. In general, it is estimated that a healthy woman should gain about 11 kg during the entire pregnancy, although this may vary according to the woman's previous weight.

Problems related to being overweight during pregnancy

• The baby may be larger than normal, which increases the likelihood of cesarean section and the use of forceps.

• Increased risk of gestational diabetes.

• Increased chance of hypertension and preeclampsia.

Problems related to low birth weight during pregnancy

• Intrauterine growth retardation and low birth weight.

• Increased risk of malnutrition of the baby.

• Increased likelihood of miscarriage and premature delivery.

• Congenital malformations.

Problems related to diet in pregnancy

Nausea and vomiting:

• Nausea and vomiting are common in pregnancy, affecting between 50% and 80% of pregnant women, mainly during the first 16 weeks.

• In severe cases, they can progress to hyperemesis gravidarum, which causes dehydration and weight loss, and may require hospitalization.

Recommendations to reduce nausea and vomiting:

• Start meals with farinaceous foods, such as bread or crackers.

• Eat small portions and snack every 2-3 hours.

• Drink liquids at room temperature or slightly chilled.

• Reattempt to eat after an episode of vomiting.

Heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux: These are common due to decreased esophageal sphincter resistance and the pressure of the uterus on the stomach.

Recommendations to avoid heartburn:

• Eat moderate portions and avoid lying down after eating.

• Reduce acidic foods such as lemon and vinegar.

• Avoid carbonated beverages, coffee and tea.

Constipation: The growth of the uterus and the use of iron supplements can cause constipation.

Recommendations to reduce constipation:

• Consume 2-3 liters of water per day.

• Increase fiber intake with vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

• Exercise regularly.

Important: Do not use laxatives without consulting a doctor.

Anemia: Caused mainly by iron and folate deficiencies, and common in teenage or repeated pregnancies.

Recommendations to avoid anemia:

• Consume foods rich in iron and vitamin B12.

• Eat green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits.

• Take iron and folate supplements recommended by the physician.

Gestational diabetes: It can arise due to hormonal changes of pregnancy, being more common in women over 35 years old, overweight or using corticosteroids.

Recommendations to prevent gestational diabetes:

• Arrive at pregnancy at a healthy weight.

• Gain weight progressively during pregnancy.

• Do moderate physical exercise.

• Distribute meals throughout the day.

• Reduce the consumption of rapidly absorbed carbohydrates.