Pregnancy is a period in a woman’s life where being healthy is a requirement to support the growth of the developing child and the changes that undergoes in the body. But does pregnancy really require eating twice your regular meal size? And how can a working woman, who is always on the go, follow a healthy eating habit?
According to studies, expectant moms require an additional 300 kcal/day of nutrition each day. Thus, doubling their regular food consumption is a total myth and they might end up gaining an excessive amount of weight during pregnancy, increased risk of gestational diabetes, backaches, high blood pressure, and could possibly undergo a cesarean birth because the baby is very large. Conversely, gaining too little weight during pregnancy is a concern. It can lead to low birth weight, premature delivery, and, later, developmental delays, learning disabilities, and chronic health problems in your baby.
Working pregnant women need to pay more attention into their diet because as the pregnancy advances, the demand for calorie also increases. It is also advised that they should take a short break in between long working hours and avoid working until late night. A sound 8-9 hours of sleep is recommended to maintain good health.
Here are some important things to consider being a working pregnant woman:
- The diet of pregnant women must be consisted of the ‘three basic food groups’. (Go, glow, and glow)
- Snack on healthy items often and take small frequent meals.
- Drink plenty of fluids, as this will also help in avoiding and controlling nausea.
- Must take the prescribed supplements daily.
- Increase protein intake in diet.
Things to avoid being a working pregnant woman:
- Avoid eating raw or partially cooked eggs, vegetables, meats, and un-pasteurized milk.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs.
- Avoid caffeine as much as possible.
- Avoid active and passive smoking.
- Avoid eating canned food as it has preservatives which can harm the baby.
- Check with the doctor before taking vitamins and herbal products as some of these can be harmful.
By: AA VI Rucel Mae Fabian/OIC-NPC Flores
