Normal and Therapeutic Nutrition

Normal and Therapeutic Nutrition 3(2+1)

Lesson 10:Maternal Nutrition

Dietary Guidelines

• Small and frequent meals should be taken. Avoid fasting or missing any meal.
• More fiber should be included in the diet to prevent constipation ( 5- 6 servings of fruits and vegetables should be included).
• Diet should be rich in calcium to prevent osteomalacia. Calcium supplements also can be taken.
• Iron rich foods should be taken to prevent anaemia, and to build up iron stores in foetal body. Iron supplements can be taken.
• Diet should contain optimum amounts of sodium. If oedema or hypertension prevail, then sodium should be restricted.
• Inclusion of green leafy vegetables daily ensures minerals like calcium and iron.
• Plenty of water should be taken to keep the bowel movements normal
• Fatty foods, fried foods, excessive seasonings, strongly flavoured vegetables may be restricted if nausea and gastric distress are present.
• Fluid intake should be between meals rather than along with meals
• Adequate amount of calories should be taken so that enough fat is deposited during pregnancy which can be utilized for lactation.