early-pregnancy.info

On average, total weight gain for the entire pregnancy should be around 12.5 kg to 18 kg.

IF YOU ARE SHORT and of small build, then the weight increase should be less than your bigger peers. On the other hand, taller and larger women can afford to put on 18 kg or slightly more. Women who gain more than what is required tend to have larger than normal babies and this increases their risk of Caesarean delivery. Other concerns include diffculty in losing the extra pounds post-pregnancy, diabetes and high blood pressure.

WHEN SHOULD MOST OF THE WEIGHT GAIN OCCUR?

Mainly in the second and third trimesters. In the first trimester, you will only need an extra 100 calories a day.

QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY

More important then the quantity of food you consume during pregnancy is the quality of it.

IRON

What’s it good for?

1. To produce haemoglobin in borh mother’s and baby’s red blood cells, which makes oxygen being carried in the blood causes tiredness.
2. Prevents anaemis.
3. Helps baby gain sufficient weight and prevents premature delivery.

Sources: lean red meat, fich, dried beans and peas, whole grains and green leafy vegetables. Supplements may be required for anaimic women.

VITAMIN C

What’s it good for”

1. Helps improve iron absoption.
2. Increases folic acid absorption.
3. Reduces pre-eclampsia risk.
4. maintains a good healthy immune system.

Sources: Oranges, lemons, limes, broccoli, capsicums, tomatoes, spinach and other dark leafy greens. Vitamins C is easily destroyed so cook such foods lightly.

PROTEINS

What’s it good for?

Essential for the development of the baby.

Sources: Fish, lean meat, peas, nuts, milk, yoghurt, cheese, eggs and beans. Proteins are made up of amino acids; animal proteins contain all the essential amino acids. Works together with Vitamin B6.