Bohol Province - The First 1000 Days of life starts during the conception of the child in the mother’s womb. The overall well-being of a woman during her pregnancy is vital for the growth of the child in her womb. Maternal undernutrition and overnutrition might lead to increased risk for acute and chronic diseases for both mother and child, poor pregnancy outcomes, or worst, maternal and child morbidity.

But these can be prevented from happening if we follow these recommendations for the right diet during pregnancy:

Get the right calories

Achieving the right weight gain during pregnancy is crucial. For normal women, an additional 300 calories per day is needed to provide for the additional demands of the growing fetus. PINGGANG PINOY for Pregnant and Lactating Women is also available from the DOST-FNRI.

Aside from getting the right amount of food, it is also important to choose the right kind of food. Foods that are high in iron like meat, fish, poultry, and green leafy vegetables are highly recommended to reduce the risk of iron deficiency anemia. Iron is also needed for the fetus’ production of red blood cells and brain development. In addition, taking iron-folic acid supplements is also advised.

You are never wrong with calcium

Milk and milk products such as cheese and yogurt, small fishes and dark green vegetables are good sources of calcium. Calcium is known for its role in strengthening bones and teeth and your little one needs it when growing inside your womb.

During pregnancy, it is NOT “sky is the limit”

There’s a popular saying that in life: “The sky is the limit.” But during pregnancy, you always have to carefully watch what you eat. Limit your intake of caffeine and sugar like your coffee and soft drink. Caffeine can cause birth defects and high sugar intake might lead to gestational diabetes.

It is always amazing to have a child growing inside of you but with that blessing is a great responsibility that you carry for the rest of your life, to love and nurture the child. Eating the right food will not only benefit the child but you as well for it improves mood and a proper mindset during pregnancy. Proper diet and appropriate exercise are a must for a healthy pregnancy! // ND II, Franz Cassandra Ontina