diet

• Important, but importance should not be overstressed because, provided diet is balanced, its influence on the birth weight and survival of the baby is minimal
• The average woman needs to increase energy intake by 850 kJ per day 

  • Especially in second half of pregnancy
• Requires an increased protein intake to ensure developing foetus is adequately supplied

  • Should contain at least 65 g of protein each day
• Folic acid (folate) : essential for normal cell division and for the manufacture of protein

  Lack of folate before and during pregnancy can contribute to spina bifida and other neural tube defects - bony arch of vertebrae around the spinal cord does not develop

  Increase folate intake at least one month before pregnancy and for the first three months of pregnancy

  Foods : whole grain breads and cereals, green leafy vegetables, legumes
• Adequate amounts of calcium : necessary for normal bone growth, as well as for teeth, heart, nerve, muscle development
• Fluoride tablets (where fluoride is not added to drinking water) : help protect foetus from future dental problems

  After the 20th week of pregnancy
• Vitamin A : required for the normal growth of cells 

  Little is stored in body → steady intake is necessary

  Pregnancy increases demand considerably, especially in last 10 weeks

  Level of vitamin A in the woman’s blood tends to fall

  If woman has a balanced diet, with good quantities of green and yellow vegetables, there should be no need for concern
• Listeria infection / listeriosis - a very mild illness caused by eating food contaminated with bacterium Listeria monocytogenes

  • Has the potential to cause miscarriages / stillbirths
  • Should : eat food that has been freshly prepared or cooked
  • Avoid : salads from salad bars, pre-packaged salads, soft cheeses, pâté, raw or smoked seafoods
  • Carefully read any warnings on food labels to ensure there is no risk 
• Weight gain 

  Gain weight due to : 

  • Foetus
  • Placenta and amniotic fluid
  • Increases in blood volume
  • Increase size of breasts and uterus
  • Hormonal changes promote conversion of energy to fat and retention of water 
• Best if the weight gain is kept to about 0.5 kg a week during the second half

  Excessive weight gain is very hard to lose after child is born, particularly if mother is not breastfeeding
• If woman is used to regular exercise, exercise program should be maintained

  Women who are not used to exercise should not suddenly start a program 
• Walking regularly is a good habit to establish and maintain
• Exercise is usually safe, women who have a good exercise program:

  • Are more likely to carry their babies to full term 
  • Are better able to maintain their stamina during labour
  • Regain their pre-pregnancy body health and fitness more quickly after the birth