Pregnancy and Lactation Nutrition
Nutrition during pregnancy
Pregnancy is a period of significant changes in a woman’s body and psychology. The role of nutritional support is crucial both for the pregnant woman and the baby.
Healthy eating habits seem to be related to a smooth pregnancy. Conversely, a reduced level of nutrition appears to be associated with a high risk of miscarriage or preterm birth.
The role of nutrition is quite decisive in the development of the baby.
Nutrition therapy in pregnancy includes:
- nutritional education regarding the needs in the various stages of pregnancy
- nutritional assessment and weight monitoring
- a fully personalized nutrition plan focusing on adequate energy and nutrients consumption, like vitamin D, Ca, Fe
- adequate intake of nutritional supplements where required at this stage, in collaboration with the supervising doctor
- avoidance and prevention of pregnancy side effects, such as diabetes, hypertension
Nutrition during lactation
Nutritional support can help:
- in the production of better milk quality
- to support the mother and focus on nutritional deficiencies due to pregnancy
- in management of possible intestinal disturbances of the baby
- to return to normal weight
Nutrition therapy in lactation includes:
- nutritional education of the mother regarding the role of nutrition during breastfeeding and its benefits for her and the baby
- nutritional assessment of the lactating woman
- personalized nutrition plan focusing on energy needs, sufficient but also quality milk production, safe weight loss
