When it comes to food, there is a lot to do during pregnancy. Whether due to the mother physiological changes that affect nutritional needs, whether due to the particular care that must be taken related to the choice or preparation of food, or by helping to control weight and risk factors, professional support from a nutritionist can be an important help to have a calm pregnancy , for the birth of a healthy baby and for his future health and for a faster recovery after giving birth. The nutritionist intervention can focus on different aspects of nutrition and feeding, from nutritional quality , weight control and food safety . Adequate food intake Nutrient requirements change with pregnancy. With greater needs, the tendency may be to eat more. But the focus should not be “eating by two”, but “ eating for two ”. The care with an adequate intake will thus be mainly qualitative. It is necessary to have a varied and nutritionally complete diet , which ensures the increased needs, allows growth and development of a healthy baby, and keeps the mother weight gain controlled in order to prevent health problems during pregnancy and promote an easier recovery after childbirth. A nutritionally balanced diet during pregnancy includes paying special attention to nutrients such as folic acid, iodine, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D and magnesium, among many others, which should be reinforced, whenever possible, through the diet, but which may need to be supplemented. Food choice During pregnancy, for various reasons, certain foods should be avoided, or their consumption moderated. A nutritionist can advise on foods to avoid or fortify and alternative sources of nutrients . Drinks or spices are also an object of attention at this time, such as tea, coffee, or cinnamon, for example. Food safety Guidance information on food safety is another key aspect. Changing food preparation methods or reinforcing hygiene care are measures on which a nutritionist can advise to prevent specific problems and that must be evaluated and reviewed with the mother on a case-by-case basis. Controlling weight gain during pregnancy Both overweight and underweight are related to complications in pregnancy , for the mother and the baby, such as gestational diabetes, premature birth, preeclampsia, fetal macrosomia, or overweight and future obesity in the baby. Monitoring weight gain and adapting the diet to achieve the desired goals is easier with personalized nutrition support. Control of risk factors A correct nutritional and food planning also helps to control risk factors , such as blood sugar, high blood pressure or blood lipid levels disorders (dyslipidemias). Control and regulation of bowel function and symptoms Nausea, heartburn, and reflux are common in pregnant women and affect their quality of life and well-being. The nutritionist can advise on foods to avoid, mealtimes, and other related aspects that can help alleviate these problems . A proper digestive function is also essential during pregnancy and food has an important contribution. Planning the diet to ensure sufficient fiber and water intake, choosing supplements that may be necessary and maintaining the balance of the intestinal microbiota promote adequate absorption of nutrients, minimize the risk of pregnancy complications and help maintaining a good digestive function . Remember that a careful, balanced diet adapted to pregnancy contributes to the health and well-being of mother and baby. And contributions to the health of future generations begins in intrauterine life. Follow-up by a nutritionist is an asset and the ideal time to start a professional follow-up in nutrition dedicated to pregnancy is when it is still being planned . Author : Maria Inês Cardoso Meet the nutrition clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
