During early pregnancy, due to pregnancy reactions, the expectant mother's digestive function undergoes changes, and most of them will experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite, making eating a big challenge for expectant mothers. What should expectant mothers eat and how should they eat?
Eating smaller meals more frequently can relieve symptoms
Pregnant women with severe early pregnancy reactions do not need to emphasize the regularity of their meals like normal people, and they should not be forced to eat. The number, quantity, variety, and timing of meals should be adjusted based on the expectant mother's appetite and the severity of pregnancy reactions. It is advisable to adopt the method of eating smaller meals more frequently to ensure an adequate intake. In addition, family members should try to consider the expectant mother's personal preferences and not solely pursue the nutritional value of food. After the pregnancy reactions stop, adjustments can gradually be made.
A diet that is light and tasty is recommended
A light and tasty diet is easy to digest and can stimulate the appetite, which is beneficial for reducing early pregnancy reactions and allowing pregnant women to consume as much food as possible to meet their nutritional needs. These foods include various fresh vegetables, fruits, soy products, fish, poultry, eggs, and various grain products. Family members can make arrangements based on the expectant mother's preferences.
During early pregnancy, it is advisable to consume more carbohydrates from grains or fruits. Expectant mothers should ensure a daily intake of at least 150 grams of carbohydrates (equivalent to about 200 grams of grains) to meet the energy needs of the fetus and to avoid the adverse effects of ketosis acidosis on the early nervous system of the fetus. Foods rich in carbohydrates include grains, potatoes, and fruits. Grains generally contain about 75% carbohydrates, potatoes range from 15% to 30%, and fruits are about 10%. The carbohydrates in fruits are mainly sugars such as fructose, glucose, and sucrose, which can be directly absorbed and utilized by the fetus.
