Patient's question:
Detailed medical condition and consultation purpose: Which nutrients should be specially supplemented before pregnancy? First follow-up question: For example, are folic acid and vitamin E essential supplements? Or should I take certain medications? Or which medications should not be taken. I am currently using Peri-Lac Folic Acid Tablets. Is it okay to continue using them?Doctor's answer:
Hello, pay attention to a balanced diet before and during pregnancy.What constitutes a reasonable dietary structure for pregnant women?
(1) Early pregnancy: During this period, pregnant women often experience "morning sickness," leading to reduced appetite and symptoms like vomiting. The embryo's development is relatively slow, so the need for nutrients such as energy, protein, and inorganic salts does not significantly increase, remaining largely the same as before pregnancy. The primary focus should be on improving appetite by selecting light, refreshing, and hydrating foods, such as fresh vegetables and fruits, to regulate digestive function. If food preferences change, there is no need to avoid them. Choose foods rich in B vitamins, such as animal organs and nuts, to alleviate vomiting, while also ensuring an adequate intake of grains to prevent weight loss.
(2) Middle pregnancy: Nausea and vomiting have subsided during this period, appetite is better, fetal growth and development are rapid, and the pregnant woman's body shape begins to change. This stage requires sufficient energy, protein, lipids, inorganic salts, and vitamins. A lack of energy, protein, and lipids can affect the development of the fetal brain tissue. The fetus needs a large amount of calcium during this period, and the demand for iron also increases significantly. High-quality protein sources such as beans and bean products, animal organs, lean meat, dairy products, fish, and eggs should be emphasized. To supplement vitamins, consume animal organs, lean meat, fresh vegetables, and fruits.
(3) Late pregnancy: The fetus continues to develop and mature rapidly during this period. If the pregnant woman's activity level decreases significantly, the energy supply can be adjusted accordingly or maintained at the mid-pregnancy level, while protein intake should be appropriately increased. To meet the needs of the later stage