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Pregnancy Cravings? Nutrition Needs May Be Unmet
13 Dec
Summary
- Non-nutritive food cravings during pregnancy signal unmet nutrient needs.
- Indian approach to pregnancy eating often relies on guesswork, not calculation.
- Poor nutrition during pregnancy increases risks for babies, including low birth weight.
Pregnancy cravings for non-nutritive items are often a red flag signaling that a mother's daily requirements for micronutrients and macronutrients are falling short. The prevalent Indian cultural advice to "eat whatever you wish" during pregnancy is viewed by experts as potentially harmful to both the expectant mother and the developing fetus.
Nutritionists emphasize that pregnancy diets require specific calorie calculations, not simply eating for happiness or according to impulse, which can lead to consuming processed foods. Traditional homemade, natural foods are being replaced by packaged alternatives, often laden with sugar, necessitating a conscious effort for health.
Dietitians explain that pregnancy nutrition is highly individualized, requiring expert advice. A balanced diet rich in complex carbohydrates, quality proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids is crucial for maternal health and fetal development, as poor nutrition is linked to increased risks for babies.
