The nutritional status has the most direct influence on the developing fetus bearing in mind that the benefits are not just for the woman but also for the next generation. It is therefore imperative to highlight the role of nutrition in pregnancy.

Nutritional Needs of Pregnancy

In order to produce a healthy baby, the food intake of the mother must supply all the nutrients needed to provide for the growth and development of the fetus while continuing to meet the mother’s needs. From conception to birth, all parts of the infant- the bones, muscles, skin, blood cells and other tissues are made from nutrients derived from the food the mother eats. A pregnant woman’s food choices can either aid or impair her infant’s growth and development.

To start with, gaining the right amount of weight during pregnancy is essential to the health of both mother and fetus. The recommended weight gain for healthy, normal-weight women is between 11-16kg. The rate of weight gain is as important as the total weight gain. Gaining too little weight during pregnancy increases the risk of producing a low birth weight or preterm baby.

Nutrient Requirements

Energy: Energy needs increase during pregnancy to deposit and maintain the new tissues for the fetus and the mother. Additional 340kcal and 450kcal (kcal is a unit or measure of energy) daily are required for the second and third trimesters respectively. This extra energy can be derived from a snack like an apple or a glass of milk. (Energy is derived mainly from carbohydrate sources in the diet- rice, wheat, yam, potatoes, noodles etc.)

Protein: Requirement for protein, which has a wide range of functions in the body also increase during pregnancy. Additional 25g of protein daily is recommended. Protein needs can be met by consuming both animal sources- meat, fish, egg, milk and dairy products and plant sources- legumes (e.g. beans), whole grains

Fat: Moderate healthy fat consumption is recommended but the essential fatty acids- omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (found in fish oil, vegetable oil, walnut, meat etc) are of particular importance because they aid the growth, structure and function of the fetal brain.

Vitamins: Some vitamins are crucial during pregnancy due to the key roles they play which increases their requirement. Vitamins B12 and vitamin B9 (folate) play key roles in cell replication (since growth involves production of new cells). Folate deficiency during this critical period (especially the first trimester) may lead to defects in the nervous system of the infant. Folate requirement can be obtained by consuming variety of fruits, green leafy vegetables, whole grains. Vitamin D is also in great demand during pregnancy due to its role in bone development. Regular exposure to sunlight and intake of vitamin D fortified milk will meet the need. Vitamin C is also important for the formation of bones and other tissues.  Vitamin C requirement can be met by including citrus fruits and leafy vegetables in the diet.

Minerals: Key minerals like iron, zinc, calcium are great demand during pregnancy. Iron and zinc play key roles in production of new cells, especially blood cells. Women with iron deficiency anemia are at a higher risk of having low birth weight infants. Dietary sources of iron include meat, fish and green leafy vegetables.

Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus are key minerals involved in fetal bone development. Calcium needs are especially increased in the third trimester for hardening of the fetal bones. Calcium needs can be met through daily intake of three servings of milk and dairy products (cheese, yoghurt).

Water: Water requirement also increases during pregnancy due to the increase in blood volume and the needs of the fetus. This requirement increases to 3litres (equivalent of four 75cl bottles, or 6 sachets of water) daily.

Supplements: Daily multivitamin-mineral supplements are usually recommended for pregnant women. Prenatal supplements typically contain greater amounts of folate, iron, calcium and are beneficial especially to those in high risk of malnutrition.

In summary, the following guidelines will allow women enjoy a healthy pregnancy:

·         Maintain optimal nutrition and health prior to and during pregnancy

·         Achieve and maintain a desirable body weight

·         Eat adequate, safely prepared, nutrient-dense meals

·         Take prenatal vitamin and mineral supplements (as prescribed)

·         Engage regularly in physical activity (as prescribed)

·         Avoid cigarettes and alcohol

In conclusion, the diet and lifestyle of a woman are strong predictors of the outcome of pregnancy.

Victoria Adebiyi (NRD) is a Registered Dietitian in Ondo state, Nigeria