It is very important that our diet consists of proper minerals and vitamins and especially during pregnancy times. The nutrient requirement during pregnancy is very important as it is not only required for the mother but also for the growth and development of the baby. So poor nutrition or malnutrition during the pregnancy period is very dangerous. Keeping track of the nutritional needs during the pregnancy period is a hectic job, and sometimes we end up having less or the wrong food. But ladies, through this post, we are going to help you by discussing some of the signs related to poor nutrition during pregnancy.
But before we do so, we need to understand what does poor nutrition refers to.
What is Malnutrition/Poor Nutrition?
This happens when the body is unable to get the requisite nutrients that are required for the body to function in normal circumstances. A nutrient is a composite term, and it consists of two types of nutrients; Macro Nutrients (Proteins, Carbs, and Fats) and Micro Nutrients (Vitamins and minerals). So serious deficiencies of such nutrients create a lot of problems and lead to various complications like stillbirth, premature delivery, miscarriage, defects.
But these can be prevented if you take proper steps when you see the signs of poor nutrition.
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1. Dental problems:
If you are suffering from recurrent tooth decay and dental problems, then it is a sign that you are malnourished or not getting the proper nutrients, especially calcium and vitamins.
2. High Blood Pressure Levels:
High blood pressure is a very dangerous sign that indicates you are poor in nutrition. It also happens due to excess protein levels in the blood, thereby endangering both the mother and the baby.
3. Osteomalacia:
It is a condition related to softening of bones where your bones become soft or brittle. This is also a sign of poor nutrition.
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4. Anemia:
This happens when there is an iron deficiency in your body, which leads to fewer red blood cells leading to anemia. Lack of proper iron-enriched food leads to such problems.
5. Lack of an Appetite:
A very important sign of poor nutrition is a lack of appetite. You would not even like your favorite food or have any cravings, which indicated that there is something wrong.
6. Hair fall:
Hair fall is common, but if you are noticing that you are having excessive hair fall, this also indicates that you are suffering from poor nutrition.
7. Falling ill regularly:
When you don’t have a proper diet, your body is not able to get the proper nourishment, and especially during pregnant times, it leads to a lack of body defense mechanism and low immunity. Thereby you fall easily to several diseases that can be harmful to you and your baby.
8. Vomiting and diarrhea:
Morning sickness is common during pregnancy, but regular vomiting and diarrhea indicate that something is not right and you are suffering from poor nutrition.
9. Chance of higher infections:
When you possess a low level of nutrition, your white blood cells are unable to act as a defense mechanism for infections. Hence pregnant women with a lack of nutrition become very susceptible to infectious diseases.
10. Lack of proper productivity:
Without proper nutrition during your pregnancy, you would always feel tired and would be unable to regain your energy back to do things productively.
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Lack of proper nutrition for your body during your pregnancy can also lead to several long-term effects on your baby.
Risk of Diabetes Mellitus:
Since malnourishment also affects the baby, there are also several risks like developing type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Diseases:
Malnourishment often leads to the baby developing high blood pressure and heart diseases as he grows up.
Development of Osteoporosis:
Lack of proper nutrition in your pregnancy days can lead to your baby suffering from osteoporosis, where bones become brittle and susceptible to fracture.
So, when you notice any of the signs mentioned earlier, immediately contact your gynecologist for the same. Apart from this, to prevent malnutrition or poor nutrition, try eating healthy, nutritious food which will consist of a lot of fruits, vegetables, dietary fibers, protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Also, you can take prenatal vitamins and exercise regularly. You can try some specific foods like fish, eggs, lean meat, dairy products, avocado, broccoli or dark green vegetables, sweet potatoes, and legumes.
Conclusion
Do make sure that you are having a proper diet so that you and your baby don’t suffer from any complications. Always ask your gynecologist to prepare you a proper diet chart during your pregnancy period so that you become well aware of what to eat or what to not.
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