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Happy Tummy Expert

4 months ago

Dear Sweety, Thank you for the question

During pregnancy there are many physical and physiological changes that occur due to which your body demands for more nutrients in order to function efficiently, lack of one or more nutrient can lead to macronutrient or micronutrient deficiency and malnourishment. The mother’s nutritional requirements should meet her own daily needs, provide enough nutrient for growing foetus, and furnish the energy for child birth and lactation.

It is recommended to consume 2000+kcal and 68g of protein per day and 1000mg of calcium per day.

Consuming the right quantity and quality of protein is important for weight gain during pregnancy, it is necessary to include good biological value protein as a part of your daily balanced diet which helps in maintaining your lean muscle mass increase your muscle weight and overall weight

Some micronutrients are specially required in extra amounts during these physiological periods. Folic acid, taken throughout the pregnancy, reduces the risk of congenital malformations and increases the birth weight. Similarly, iodine intake ensures proper mental health of the growing fetus and infant. Calcium is also essential for optimum formation of bones and teeth.

WHO has given different BMI (Body mass index) classifications to categorise adults into different weight categories. BMI is a simple index of weight-for-height. It can be considered as a 2^nd level indicator of overall health.

It can be calculated using a simple formula of BMI = Weight (kg) / Height (m²)

Following is the WHO BMI Classification for Asians

18.5 to 23 - Normal

Less than 18.5 - Underweight

23 to 27.5 - Overweight

Above 27.5 - Obese

As per WHO BMI (Body Mass Index) classification, a person weighing less than 18.5 kg/m2 is considered underweight.

According to your mentioned Height & weight your BMI is 19.3 kg/m2 which is in the Normal category as per WHO classification.

However if you wish to start on a weight gain program, it is recommended that the target weight is to be within the normal BMI range, and to be followed under professional guidance of a gynecologist.

Consume a diversified balanced diet including all food groups ensure good intake nutrients such as protein, calcium, iron, dietary fibre, Folate etc. Maintain hydration and good quality sleep regimen.

.Here are few guidelines for healthy balanced diet that can be considered:

• Have a Diversified Balanced Diet that includes all the food groups in the right quantity which thereby provides you with all the essential macro and micro nutrients that your body requires daily for proper functioning.
• Try to incorporate the My plate Concept by dividing your plate into 4 quadrants, fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables, the other two quadrants with cereals and protein. A small quantity of dairy intake is recommendable.
• Begin your day with a well-balanced breakfast as it is an important meal of the day.
• Avoid skipping meals. Also, try to avoid fasting and feasting too often.
• Consume minimum 5 servings of vegetables and 1 serving of fruit as they are rich in Fiber, essential minerals & Vitamins as well as they give you a feeling of satiety.
• Maintain a positive energy balance where the calorie intake should be more than the energy expenditure.
• Include energy dense foods, keeping in mind the daily needs. Some of the energy dense   foods include Whole wheat, multigrain millets, dairy products, nuts, colocasia leaves, banana, raisins, pulses/lentils etc.
• Some of the good sources of protein include pulses, lentils, milk, paneer, soybean, eggs, lean meat, nuts & seeds, etc.  
• Three major meals a day with healthy nutritious snacks in between is preferred.
• Include good amount of fiber in your daily balanced, some of the god sources of fiber include whole grain, multigrain, millets, fruits and vegetables, nuts etc.
• Try to increase the serving size and portion size gradually and systematically
• Include healthy fats from nuts and seeds.
• Limit intake of deep-fried foods. Method of cooking like baking, grilling, boiling, steaming is preferable over deep frying with excess fat/ oil.
• Have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before sleep time.
• Drink adequate amount of water (minimum 8 glasses) of water daily to keep yourself well hydrated
• Try and follow a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and Quality.

 For a customised and personalised meal plan for specific conditions, please contact your Health care professional or any registered dietician.

Hope we have answered your query.

Wishing you a great day ahead

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