In early pregnancy, due to morning sickness, the digestive function of expectant mothers changes, and most of them will experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite, so eating becomes a big problem for expectant mothers. What should expectant mothers eat and how should they eat?
Eating small meals can relieve symptoms
Pregnant women with severe morning sickness do not need to emphasize the regularity of their diet like ordinary people, nor should they be forced to eat. The number, quantity, variety, and time of meals should be adjusted according to the expectant mother's appetite and the severity of morning sickness. It is advisable to eat small meals frequently to ensure an adequate intake. In addition, family members should try to consider the expectant mother's personal preferences and not just pursue the nutritional value of the food. After the morning sickness stops, corrections can be gradually made.
Diet should be light and appetizing
A light and appetizing diet is easy to digest and can increase appetite, which is beneficial for reducing early pregnancy symptoms and enabling 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 arrange them according to the expectant mother's preferences.
In early pregnancy, pregnant women should try to consume more carbohydrates from grains or fruits. Expectant mothers should ensure a daily intake of at least 150 grams of carbohydrates (about 200 grams of grains) to meet the energy needs of the fetus and also avoid the adverse effects of ketosis acidosis on the early nervous system of the fetus. Carbohydrate-rich foods include grains, potatoes, and fruits. Grains generally contain about 75% carbohydrates, potatoes contain 15% to 30%, and fruits contain about 10%. The carbohydrates in fruits are mostly sugars, such as fructose, glucose, and sucrose, which can be directly absorbed and utilized by the fetus.
