Fetal size small, too much amniotic fluid, what to do?

Patient's question:

Hello Doctor:
Please consult the following: My wife is 37 weeks pregnant. According to the ultrasound results, the fetus is smaller than normal, and there is excessive amniotic fluid. The doctor said we need to increase nutrition. What should I do? How should I arrange three meals a day? There are so many nutritional supplements available now, and I don’t know where to start. Please advise! Thank you!!!

Doctor's answer:

Hello:
As is well known, pregnant women require more nutrients than the average person. They must not only meet their own nutritional needs but also provide sufficient nourishment for the fetus's growth and development, as well as build up nutritional reserves for childbirth and breastfeeding in the future. However, increasing nutrition does not mean consuming nutrients without restraint. Excessive intake can be harmful to the fetus.
Some pregnant women hold the misconception that eating more high-nutrient foods will make their children strong. As a result, they consume large amounts of high-nutrient, high-calorie substances in an uncontrolled manner, leading to oversized fetuses and an increased risk of dystocia and birth injuries. In reality, a large newborn does not necessarily mean a healthy child. Many overweight infants are born with low blood calcium and polycythemia, which can further lead to infant seizures and neonatal hypoxia. Additionally, due to excessive nutrition, maternal blood glucose levels are relatively high, causing the fetal pancreas to secrete at a higher level. If the child is not breastfed promptly after birth, it may result in neonatal hypoglycemia, which can affect the infant's brain development. Therefore, excessive nutrient intake during pregnancy does not necessarily guarantee a healthy newborn.
Some people also believe that dietary restraint during pregnancy can make the fetus smaller, making delivery easier. Others, fearing excessive postpartum obesity, also restrict their diet during pregnancy. These practices are incorrect and can directly impact the health of the next generation.
In addition to their own nutritional needs, pregnant women must provide all the nutrients required for fetal growth. From a fertilized egg to a fetus weighing around 3,000 grams, nutrition is indispensable. Aside from genetic factors, nutrition is crucial for brain development.