Pregnancy

Gestational Weight Gain

Healthy estimated weight gain during pregnancy ranges from 10-13 kg for women with normal BMI.

LBW (Low Birth Weight)

Birth weight less than 2500 grams, associated with poor nutrition and low pre-pregnant weight.

Periconceptual Nutrition

Nutritional management before and around the time of conception to enhance maternal and foetal health.

Iron Requirement in Pregnancy

An additional 800 mg of iron is needed during pregnancy, about 15 mg per day.

Folic Acid

A key nutrient for DNA synthesis and neural tube development, requiring increased intake during pregnancy.

Calcium Intake During Pregnancy

Increased calcium needs after 12 weeks gestation to support fetal bone development.

Vitamin D in Pregnancy

Essential for bone health and immune support, primarily obtained through sun exposure.

Zinc Deficiency Effects

Low zinc levels during pregnancy can lead to abnormal brain development and congenital malformations.

Iodine's Role in Pregnancy

Critical for thyroid function and brain development; increased intake is necessary during pregnancy.

Polyunsaturated Fats in Pregnancy

Long-chain polyunsaturated fats, such as omega-3s, are essential for fetal brain development.

Breastfeeding Energy Needs

Energy requirements during lactation are higher than during pregnancy (+500 kcal/day for the first 6 months).

Breast Milk Composition

Transition milk contains more whey; mature milk is approximately 50% whey and 50% casein.

Autocrine Control of Breastfeeding

Milk production is regulated by breast storage capacity and how empty the breast is after feeding.

Key Benefits of Breastfeeding for Infants

Breastfeeding boosts immunity and reduces risks of obesity and chronic diseases later in life.

Ductal Growth in Lactation

Early ductal growth is influenced by hormones like progesterone and prolactin during pregnancy.

Infant Formula

Recommended alternative to breastmilk that cannot replicate all the bioactive properties of breastmilk.

Reasons against Cow’s Milk before 12 Months

Cow's milk is high in protein and sodium and low in essential fatty acids and iron, posing risks.

Homemade Formula Risks

Homemade formulas can cause severe nutritional imbalances and lack essential nutrients.

Nutrient Absorption Inhibitors

Excess iron and dietary fiber inhibit zinc absorption; oxalates and caffeine inhibit calcium absorption.

Common Issues in Pregnancy

Common nutritional-related problems include morning sickness, gestational diabetes, and pre-eclampsia.

Nutrition and Neonatal Health

Proper maternal nutrition during pregnancy influences lifelong health outcomes for the infant.

Influence of Maternal Weight on Pregnancy Outcomes

Maternal size affects placenta size and, consequently, fetal nutrition and birth weight.

Hydration in Lactation

Adequate fluid intake is essential to support an average milk production of 750-850 mL/day.

Nutritional Needs Postpartum

Calcium needs increase to 1000-1300 mg/day during lactation to prevent bone loss.

Breastfeeding Duration in Australia

96% of newborns receive breastmilk, but exclusive breastfeeding rates decline after 6 months.

Addressing Preterm Birth Risks

Intake of omega-3-rich foods like fish and fish oils is associated with longer-term pregnancies.