Pregnancy is a time for great changes in life. When you are pregnant, you change in a lot of ways to give your baby a healthy environment to grow and nurture. Optimum nutrition for you and your baby is the most crucial aspect of this change.
The first few weeks of your pregnancy are when your baby is going through paramount fetal developmental changes. Therefore it is prudent to make the necessary dietary and lifestyle changes during this phase as it can affect more than just your baby’s weight. The dietary and lifestyle changes that you need to implement are individualized and there is no single proposition that can work for all.
Nutrition goals during pregnancy depend on multiple factors like weight of the mother before pregnancy, her nutritional status, her weight, eating habits etc. A Dietitian or a Nutritionist is a trained professional who can understand your requirements and define healthy diet and lifestyle changes for you and your baby. Here are the top 5 reasons why you need to consult your dietitian now!
Healthy weight gain
Pregnancy is the only time when weight gain is encouraged. There are multiple growth spurts through various stages of your pregnancy and it is only desirable for you to reach those weight gain goals without getting worried about gaining extra pounds. Your dietitian can examine and help you achieve these milestones in the healthiest way possible.
Well balanced diet
Eating for two is just not about eating more calories. It includes eating the right amount of all the nutrients from all the food groups. Eating a well balanced diet that provides you with a spectrum of nutrients, keeping up with your fluid intake goals, eating the right food item at the right time and feeling healthy throughout are just a few ways in which a dietitian can guide you.
Knowing your micro-nutrient requirements
Micro nutrients are just as important as macro nutrients. Micro nutrients play a pivotal role in the development and growth of the baby. A dietitian can assist you and make sure you get yore prime nutrients like calcium, iron, vitamins and minerals.
Help you through your pregnancy with medical conditions and disorders
Your journey through pregnancy is marked with various issues and disorders. Be it nausea, vomiting, body ache, constipation or headaches- your Dietitian can help you with almost anything and everything!
Altering your diet and nutrition throughout your pregnancy
Your nutrition and dietary goals change through various milestones during your journey. Your dietitian can assess, monitor, document and define all your needs during your pregnancy.
Remember, We are what our mothers ate! It is absolutely essential to see a Dietitian to create a nourishing environment for you and your baby. Embark on this beautiful journey with your angel in disguise!
About the author
Akansha Jhalani, Chief Nutrition Advisor, Care24
Akansha Jhalani is a practising Registered Dietitian based in Mumbai. She has an extensive practical knowledge of medical Nutrition Therapy, disease management and prevention, nutrition counselling, lifestyle coaching, mindful eating and clinical research.
With a wide range of expertise and skills, Akansha Jhalani possesses an ability to authentically and organically speak about nutrition, health, lifestyle management and physical activity. Akansha is a food columnist for some leading publications and has been featured in various health and fitness columns and online portals.
Akansha is a passionate foodie, a health enthusiast, an avid traveler and a happy yogi.
