What should be the diet during pregnancy from the first month till delivery, learn from the experts

News Topical, Digital Desk : Pregnancy is a very special and emotional time in every woman's life. When a woman learns that she is going to become a mother, many changes begin in her life. During this time, hormonal changes occur in the body, dietary needs change, and special attention to health becomes essential. Eating a proper diet during pregnancy is crucial, because what a mother eats directly affects the baby's growth. Therefore, a balanced and nutritious diet from the first month of pregnancy until delivery is essential. A proper diet keeps the mother healthy and the baby's growth is also proper. So, let's explore what a proper diet should be like during pregnancy, from the first month until delivery. 

Why is a proper diet important during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, a woman's body requires more nutrition than usual. According to experts, a pregnant woman needs approximately 300 extra calories daily. This extra energy is essential for the baby's growth, the mother's health, and the changes taking place in her body. If a pregnant woman doesn't consume the right amount of nutrients, it can affect the baby's growth and the mother may also experience problems like weakness, anemia, and fatigue. Therefore, it is very important to eat a balanced and nutritious diet during pregnancy. 

What should be the diet during pregnancy from the first month till delivery?

1. Diet for 1–3 months - A balanced and nutritious diet is essential for the good health of both mother and baby during pregnancy. The body's needs change throughout the nine months of pregnancy, so proper nutrition is essential each month. The first trimester, or 1–3 months, marks the beginning of the baby's brain and spinal cord development, so folic acid and iron are crucial. In this period, consume green leafy vegetables, lentils, sprouted grains, milk, yogurt, and cheese, fruits, dried fruits, or coconut water. 

2. Diet for 4–6 Months - During the second trimester, i.e., 4–6 months, the baby's bones and body develop rapidly, so the need for calcium and protein increases. During this time, consume milk, yogurt, cheese, lentils, kidney beans, chickpeas, eggs, soybeans, green vegetables, fruits, and salads. 

3. Diet for 7–9 Months - During the third trimester, your baby gains weight and fully develops, so your need for energy and iron increases. Therefore, eat foods rich in iron (spinach, beets, dates), protein (lentils, cheese, eggs), calcium (milk, yogurt), fruits, and fiber. 

What should be avoided during pregnancy?

1. Raw or undercooked food – Raw eggs, undercooked meat and fish may contain bacteria that can cause infection.

2. Too much caffeine – Drinking too much tea, coffee, and energy drinks can be harmful during pregnancy.

3. Alcohol – Alcohol can adversely affect the baby's development and increase the risk of birth defects. 

4. Junk food – Pizza, burgers, chips and highly processed foods should be avoided as they contain less nutrition and more fat.

5. Unwashed fruits and vegetables – These may contain bacteria, so always wash them thoroughly before eating.

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