17Dec 2023

NUTRITIONAL REQUIREMENTS DURING PREGNANCY: A COMPREHENSIVE OVERVIEW

Pregnancy demands unique nutritional necessities different from those of women who are not pregnant, involving vital roles of vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. These elements are pivotal for the progression of a healthy pregnancy, aiding mothers in coping with common discomforts and averting complications. Presently, supplementation recommendations for pregnant women vary across nations, prompting the need for comprehensive nutrition counseling as a pivotal aspect of prenatal care. The state of a woman\'s nutrition has a major effect on her health, the course of her pregnancy, and the welfare of her fetus and newborn. Providers of healthcare must recognize and address these distinctive nutritional requisites, advocating for tailored counseling that considers diverse factors such as availability of food, social, ethnic background, cultural dietary selections, and body mass index. Adjustments become imperative in instances of pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes. Collaboration with nutritionists or registered dietitians is instrumental in delivering effective dietary interventions. This review underscores the benefits and current guidelines for mineral, vitamin, and omega-3 fatty acid intake during pregnancy while cautioning against the adverse effects of excessive nutrient consumption and advocating for consistent nutritional guidance.


Emmanuel Ifeanyi Obeagu
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Kampala International University, Uganda.

Share this article