Nutrition during Pregnancy & Lactation

Ensure provision of extra food and healthcare during pregncncy and lactation. Additional nutritious food and care is required. Eating healthily during pregnancy is important for own health and the health of the developing baby. It's important to eat a varied and balanced diet during pregnancy to provide enough nutrients for you and the development and growth of the baby (extra diet). Same way diet during lactation is important as well.

During Pregnancy a women's body undergo physical and hormonal changes. Nutrition during this time is important for mother and the child. Baby in mother's womb is dependent on mother for nutrition. Time span from conception to the baby's 2nd birthday is called 1st 1000 days. This is the period of rapid growth and mental development. It also determines the present and future health of the baby and mother.

The mother's nutritional need increases during pregnancy and lactation as well. Below is the suggested food groups for balanced diet of the mother (amount g/day).

Suggested Food Groups for Balanced Diet for Pregnant Women (Sedentary Women):

The below presents the recommended daily intake of various food groups for a sedentary pregnant woman, as per the RDA for Indians, 2024. ensures optimal maternal and fetal health by incorporating a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Cereals and millets (240g/day) serve as the primary energy source, while pulses, beans, and flesh foods (80g/day) provide high-quality protein and essential amino acids crucial for fetal growth. Green leafy vegetables (150g/day) are rich in iron and folate, reducing the risk of anemia, whereas other vegetables (200g/day) and roots & tubers (100g/day) contribute fiber, vitamins, and minerals for digestion and immunity. The inclusion of fruits (150g/day) ensures an adequate intake of antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, while milk (400ml/day) serves as an excellent source of calcium and protein, essential for bone development. Fats and oils (20g/day) provide necessary fatty acids for brain development, while oilseeds and nuts (40g/day) offer plant-based protein, healthy fats, and micronutrients. Spices (10g/day) not only enhance flavor but also contribute antioxidants and digestive benefits. This well-balanced diet supports the increased nutritional demands of pregnancy, promoting both maternal well-being and optimal fetal growth.

Additional foods for Lactating mother

To increase quality and quantity of milk

Essential Nutrition action for Young children

Ensuring proper nutrition for infants is essential for their growth and development. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months provides all the necessary nutrients and antibodies for immunity. After six months, introducing nutrient-rich complementary foods, while continuing breastfeeding, helps meet the infant’s increasing nutritional needs. Adequate intake of key micronutrients like iron, vitamin A, and zinc supports their immune system and development. Safe food preparation and responsive feeding practices are crucial to protect the infant’s health and establish healthy eating habits early on. These steps lay the foundation for lifelong health and well-being.

Golden Hour and Colostrum Feeding

The first hour immediately after the birth of the infant.

Essential Nutrition Action for Young children

On completion of 6 months babies requirement of nutrients increases, thus complementary foods should be included.
The babies diet must include different food groups.
No sugar, no biscuits, no wafers.

Nutritional Deficiencies in Young children

Nutritional deficiencies in young children can have serious consequences on their growth, development, and overall health. Common deficiencies include iron, leading to anemia; vitamin A, which can impair vision and immunity; and zinc, which affects growth and immune function. Lack of essential nutrients can result in stunted growth, weakened immune systems, cognitive delays, and increased susceptibility to infections. Addressing these deficiencies through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins, as well as supplementation when necessary, is crucial to ensuring healthy development in young children.

Protein Energy malnutrition: Kwashiorkor and Marasmus.

Vitamin A: Bitot spots development.

Vitamin C deficiency: Neuro-developmental disabilities.

Calcium : Rickets in children ( condition that affects bone development in children.

Nutrition for Adolescent Girls

Eating healthy food is important at any age, but after 10 years of age there is a certain increase in the nutrient requirements of the body and the subsequent increase after 12 years age as the body is continuously growing.

The below table shows the requirement of food groups (amount in grams/day) for different age groups.

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