The nutritional needs of a pregnant mother and a developing fetus are essential to the human development process. The key question that may come to mind, in thinking of the health and wellness of an unborn baby, is as follows: How can a mother-to-be obtain the correct nutritional source for the developing fetus? In answering this question it is helpful to understand the nutritional needs by identifying the correct amount of nutrition intake. The nutrition needed for the mother and developing fetus is Calcium, Folic acid, Iron, Protein, Vitamin C, and Vitamin D. These nutritional needs can be met by eating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and drinking 100 percent juices (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2016). In addition, water is instrumental during pregnancy as well. Water helps to terminate toxins, regulates overall body temperature and it aides in the digestion process (American Pregnancy Association, 2015). According to human development statistics, mothers who eat properly and engage in exercise during pregnancy are less likely to have malnourished babies (U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2015).
Health concerns and diseases associated with poor nutrition
Poor nutrition during the gestational period can result in health diseases. The lack of good nutrition can cause neurological dysfunction, mental deficiency, paralysis, and physical abnormalities (American Pregnancy Association, 2015). This is why it is vital to make good nutritional choices during pregnancy. Good nutritional choices are those foods and liquids that will cultivate the overall health of the unborn baby. Bad nutritional choices are those foods and liquids that will be unhealthy or harmful to the growth process of the unborn baby.
Pros and Cons of Breastfeeding versus Bottle formula
Once the baby is born the mother may choose to breastfeed or use bottle formula. In some cases the mother may use both methods (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2016). Although breastfeeding and bottle formula can be beneficial, there are still cons as well as pros to keep in mind. Breast milk provides a good source of vitamins, minerals and nutrients to the baby. This helps to build the immune system to fight sickness and infection. On the contrary, sometimes the mother’s diet does not contain the proper amount of nutrients. In this case, breastfeeding would not be the best method for the baby. The initial stage of breastfeeding can sometimes be uncomfortable for the mother. There are also cases in which the baby may have difficulty receiving milk from the mother’s breast, or the mother may not produce enough milk. This is why some mothers prefer bottle formula. However, the cons in using bottle formula can yet be frustrating. Some babies become constipated due to the ingredients and may even develop allergic reactions causing health issues.
Recommendations
The importance of nutrition during pregnancy is a high demand. It is essential that mothers take of care their bodies before, during and after pregnancy. This will contribute to a healthy way of life. There are helpful sources that can assist mothers, a mother-to-be and those who are thinking about starting a family. Three good sources that will provide continuous updated information on nutrition and wellness are as follows: U.S. Food and Drug and Administration, The American Pregnancy Association, and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
References
American Pregnancy Association. (2015). Promoting Pregnancy Wellness. Retrieved from www.americanpregnancy.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016). Pregnancy. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.womenshealth.gov/Pregnancy/
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2015). Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition.
Retrieved from www.fda.gov
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2016). Pregnancy. (n.d.). Retrieved
