The requirements of selected nutrients increase appreciably during pregnancy. Among the data of interest we can mention:
- Recommended intakes for the following nutrients are >25% higher than the recommended amounts for nonpregnant women: protein, α-linolenic acid, iodine, iron, zinc, folic acid, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, and vitamin B6.
- The needs for protein, iron, folic acid and vitamin B6 are about 50% higher.
- Good food sources of these nutrients are grains, dark green or orange vegetables, and the meat, bean, and nut groups.
- Additional energy is also required to meet the needs of moving a heavier body, increased metabolic rate, and tissue deposition.
- Approximately 340 to 450 kcal are needed in the second and third trimesters, respectively.
Although these increased nutrient requirements are significant, the same dietary pattern recommended for non-pregnant women can be recommended for pregnant women because that dietary pattern meets the Recommended Daily Allowances for nutrients during pregnancy for all nutrients except iron and calcium. Vitamin E.
Iron and vitamin E deficiency can be provided by any vitamin and mineral supplement that supplies at least 10 mg of iron and 9 mg of vitamin E.
Using a common eating pattern for women at all stages of the reproductive cycle allows dieticians and other health care providers to teach pregnant women the elements of a quality diet that will best ensure good health throughout life .
El Dr. Daniel García, gynecologist and obstetrician at Ginefem, explains in this video what are the main recommendations on feeding in pregnant women.
