Abstract

MATERNAL HEALTH AND NUTRITION IN PREGNANCY: AN INSIGHT

Mudasir Maqbool*, Mohmad Amin Dar, Imran Gani, Suhail Ahmad Mir, Misba Khan and Ahsan Ullaha Bhat

ABSTRACT

Nutrition plays an important and definite role in the course of pregnancy for the maintenance of sound maternal health. To meet nutritional needs, pregnant women are encouraged to consume a diet rich in vegetables, fruits and whole grains and to take a daily vitamin and mineral supplement to guarantee adequate intake of iron and folic acid. Maternal weight gain is a necessary physiologic change during pregnancy. Interestingly the fetus, placenta and amniotic fluid account for less than half of the total amount of weight gained. Pregnancy is a period of rapid growth and cell differentiation, both for the mother and the fetus. Mother’s diet should provide adequate nutrients so that maternal stores do not get depleted and the needs of the growing fetus can be met without damaging mother’s health. Adequate maternal nutrition plays a key role in normal pregnancy progress, optimal fetal development and normal birth weight of the fetus. Proper diet during pregnancy should provide an appropriate amount of energy and all essential nutrients, such as protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. During pregnancy, additional energy is required for the growth and maintenance of the fetus, the placenta, and maternal tissues. Maternal micronutrient deficiency predisposes a mother to poor health, including infection, preeclampsia/eclampsia, and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as premature birth and intrauterine growth retardation. In this brief overview, we will briefly have a look at various Nutritional Implications in Pregnant women.

Keywords: Nutrition, Proteins, Energy, Maternal Health.