Patient's question:
My wife has been pregnant for five months. How should I adjust the dietary structure?Doctor's answer:
(1) High-quality protein: The human body requires 20 types of amino acids, among which 8 cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from food. These amino acids are called essential amino acids, and proteins rich in essential amino acids are considered high-quality proteins, such as dairy products, eggs, meat, fish and shrimp, soy products, and fruits. It is important to combine animal and plant proteins in the diet to increase protein utilization.(2) Fat: Phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and DHA in fat are the main raw materials for baby brain cells. Adequate intake by pregnant women is very important for fetal brain development. Whole-fat milk, fatty oils, butter, cocoa oil, palm oil, other vegetable oils, and grains are all rich in these components. However, note that animal fats have a high cholesterol content, and excessive intake can lead to hypercholesterolemia. Plant fats can help reduce certain cholesterol levels in animal fats. Pregnant women can mix them, but in moderation, as excessive consumption can cause obesity.
(3) Carbohydrates: Grains such as rice, millet, corn, potatoes, and vegetables and fruits are rich in carbohydrates. In addition to the calories provided by proteins and fats, the rest of the energy needed during pregnancy is supplied by carbohydrates (sugars). Typically, daily intake can increase by 50–100 grams based on pre-pregnancy levels. Generally speaking, a weight gain of about 350 grams per week during prenatal check-ups indicates a reasonable intake.
(4) Vitamins: Vitamins closely related to maternal and fetal health include vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B12, vitamin C, and vitamin D. Vitamin deficiencies are associated with intrauterine growth restriction, low birth weight infants, miscarriage, and preterm birth. It is important to supplement vitamins during pregnancy. Fresh vegetables and fruits, egg yolks, liver, and meats are rich in various vitamins.
(5) Minerals: Such as calcium, iron, zinc, and iodine. Milk and dairy products are ideal sources of calcium, being rich in calcium and highly absorbable. Dried shrimp, small fish, kelp, and soy products also contain high levels of calcium. Fortified calcium foods and calcium supplements are also effective ways to supplement calcium. Consuming more animal liver, lean meat, poultry, fish, and soy products can prevent iron deficiency. At the same time, it is important to eat more vegetables and fruits to increase vitamin C intake, which enhances iron absorption in the intestines.