Concerns about nutrition during pregnancy are important for every expectant mother! But what is the correct way to supplement nutrients? And what misconceptions should expectant mothers avoid?
Misconception 1: More nutrients is always better, and a chubby baby is healthy. Little do people know that an excess of nutrients can directly lead to obesity, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. It can also result in macrosomia (a condition where the baby is larger than average), making labor more difficult and increasing the likelihood of birth injuries. Furthermore, babies born with macrosomia are more prone to conditions such as hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, and polycythemia, and are at a higher risk of developing obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases in adulthood.
Misconception 2: Calcium supplementation during pregnancy is always beneficial. Many pregnant women take calcium supplements without proper guidance, often as a result of blind adherence. Excessive calcium supplementation can increase the risk of kidney stones and milk-alkali syndrome (a clinical syndrome characterized by hypercalcemia, alkalosis, and varying degrees of kidney damage caused by long-term consumption of large amounts of milk or calcium supplements combined with absorbable alkaline agents). It may also promote the development of certain cancers in individuals with other risk factors. Therefore, it is recommended that normal pregnant women try to obtain calcium from their diet, and those with calcium deficiencies can consider taking calcium supplements under the guidance of a doctor.
Misconception 3: Early and excessive vitamin supplementation is fine. The early stages of pregnancy are when fetal organ development is most active, and excessive intake of vitamins can be very harmful to the fetus. Excessive intake of vitamin A in the early stages of pregnancy can cause birth defects, and excessive intake of vitamin C can lead to miscarriage. Therefore, it is advisable to begin supplementing with vitamin preparations from the mid-pregnancy stage and prioritize obtaining vitamins from food sources.
Misconception 4: Starches are not nutritious, so they should be consumed in small quantities. Starches contain a large amount of carbohydrates, which play a vital role in providing energy and maintaining blood sugar levels. The metabolism of maternal and fetal brain cells, as well as the placenta, rely on the consumption of glucose for energy. Consuming insufficient amounts of starches can lead to hypoglycemia and the production of ketone bodies, which can have toxic effects on the nervous system.
Misconception 5: Weight gain is not a concern, and postpartum weight loss is possible. This is a very incorrect notion. Maternal weight gain is one of the indicators used to assess nutritional status during pregnancy. If a pregnant woman consumes excessive calories, leading to imbalanced nutrition and obesity, the baby may become too large, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes and macrosomia. Gestational diabetes can lead to severe maternal and infant complications and comorbidities.
Misconception 6: Eating a large amount of fruit during pregnancy is necessary. Many pregnant women consume several kilograms of fruit per day and eat a lot of nuts, believing that eating more nuts will result in the baby having good hair growth. Excessive intake of calories, fat, and sugar can easily lead to gestational obesity, gestational diabetes, and macrosomia. Expectant mothers are advised to consume fruit and nut products in moderation. Generally, daily fruit intake should not exceed 250 grams, and 1-2 nuts such as walnuts are sufficient.
