Dietary Guidelines

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.
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Last modified: Monday, 24 October 2011, 6:41 AM