The nutritional needs of pregnant women are different. It all depends on the initial nutritional status before experiencing pregnancy, depending on how old the womb is and what the condition is at that time.
During pregnancy, a woman's body has very drastic physiological changes. One of them is the increase in blood circulation to balance the blood requirements that will be channeled to the placenta.
Adequate intake of macro- and micro-nutrients during pregnancy greatly supports these processes. On the other hand, nutritional deficiencies or excesses are associated with health problems during pregnancy.
Some of these pregnancy disorders can be seen directly. For example, when protein and fat intake is deficient, fetal weight gain is not as expected.
Another example is that iron deficiency is associated with anemia in pregnant women. As a result, pregnant women quickly feel weak, tired, have difficulty concentrating, and dizzy. Anemic pregnant women are also at risk of bleeding during childbirth.
Macronutrients are essential nutrients that are needed in relatively large amounts for the body. Macronutrients consist of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Each of these macronutrients provides different amounts of energy to the body. Macronutrients are nutrients that contain calories or energy, such as carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
The proportion of macronutrients is no different in pregnant women than before pregnancy. Carbohydrates comprise 50-60 percent of total calories, 25-30 percent of protein, and 15-20 percent of fat.
But remember, there is an increase in calories needed during pregnancy. From the number of calories, pregnant women need (according to age and activity level), it is generally necessary to add 300 more calories for the second and third trimesters.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential source of energy for pregnant women. Eat complex carbohydrates that also contain fiber so that you avoid constipation. Complex carbohydrates include brown rice, whole grain bread, beans, vegetables, and fruits, such as corn.
Protein
Protein is essential in the growth and development of cells or tissues, including fetal brain cells. In addition, protein also helps the growth of breast tissue in pregnant women and increases blood supply in the body.
The protein intake requirement for pregnant women is around 75-100 grams or 2-3 servings of protein sources per day. Good protein sources for pregnant women include lean beef, fish, chicken, lamb, tofu, and beef liver.
Fat
When pregnant, pregnant women are also encouraged to consume fat. However, choose sources of excellent or unsaturated fats, such as nuts, avocados, olive oil, and salmon.
Good fats containing omega-3 support the baby's brain and eye growth before birth and cognitive development and vision after birth. It also helps the growth of the placenta and other tissues and reduces the risk of premature birth and baby blues.
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