Abstract

ROLE OF ESSENTIAL NUTRITIONS FOR PREGNANCY AND LACTATING WOMEN: A REVIEW

Ashvini C. Ramteke*, Roshan H. Khetade, Neha S. Raut and Dr. Milind J. Umeka

ABSTRACT

Poor maternal diet, especially during pregnancy and lactation, poses a potential threat to mother and child health. On an average the pregnant women Gains about 10 kg in pregnancy. A pregnant women need to consume about 350 extra calories per day, which translates to one additional meal. The growth and development of the baby is determined by the food taken by the mother. All the Nutrients provided to the baby are derived from her food. In the first seven days, baby nourishes with the nutrients from the just fertilized ovum, then the amniotic fluid and later on throughout the pregnancy the baby receives nutrients via the placenta. Even after birth the baby receives all the nutrients for the first 6 months exclusively from mother’s milk. This is followed by gradual Introduction of complementary foods after 6 months along with the mother’s milk. Eating healthy food during pregnancy will help the baby to develop and grow normally, and will keep the Mother fit as well. A healthy diet during pregnancy should contain the right balance and Combination of nutrients. If the mother is consuming a balanced diet comprising of various food Groups, she gets the benefit of various nutrients that are necessary and increased during the Pregnancy. Maternal nutrition at conception and during pregnancy influences the growth and potential development of the fetus and contributes to the maturity of a healthy baby.

Keywords: Pre-pregnancy, pregnant lactating, nutrition, essential food supplement vitamin, dietary supplements, micronutrients, macronutrients, fetal growth.