Pregnancy is an exceptional stage of life characterized by rapid growth and development. It’s crucial to provide adequacy of all the micronutrients (Vitamins & Minerals) and macro nutrients, especially dietary protein to ensure a healthy outcome. Protein deposition in maternal and fetal tissues keeps increasing throughout the pregnancy and it’s at peak during the 3 trimester (6-9 months).
Protein Requirement during pregnancy:
During pregnancy, the body needs more protein to help build new cells, tissues and organs. Protein is also important for repairing any damage that may occur to cells and tissues during pregnancy.
In first trimester the Protein requirement remains unchanged i.e., 1g/kg body weight/day. The requirement increases in 2nd and 3rd trimester. As per Indian Recommended dietary allowances (RDA), the protein requirement is +9.5 g/day in 2nd trimester (3-6 months) and +22 g/day in 3rd trimester (6-9 months)
How do we meet this requirement?
While choosing protein sources, pregnant women should aim to eat lean proteins that are low in unhealthy fats and high in essential nutrients. Good quality protein can be obtained through a variety of foods such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, nuts, beans, and legumes, etc. It is mandatory for pregnant women to include a variety of protein foods in their diets, as each type of protein provides different nutrients.
It might not be easy to make sure that the protein needs are met on a regular basis, especially for vegetarian Indians.
Prolicious has brought to you really tasty, high Protein treats which are made with natural ingredients like whole grains, millets, dals & legumes, etc. and are safe for pregnancy. All the Prolicious products contain 20-30% protein which is 2X the protein one will get from the regular alternatives. These products will provide you with good quality plant-based protein and are quick, easy to cook and consume.
For more info visit: https://prolicious.com/
How does protein help?
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Additionally, plant proteins are packed with fibre, vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, etc. and also provide good quality fats.
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Eating a variety of protein-rich foods during pregnancy can help ensure that the mother and baby get all the nutrients they need.
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Protein-rich foods can also help to reduce the risk of certain birth defects and help to ensure the baby gets a healthy start in life.
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In addition to providing essential nutrients, protein-rich foods also help to provide energy and help to prevent hunger.
References:
>https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4942872/
>https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7997328/
>https://www.im4change.org/upload/files/RDA_short_report%281%29.pdf
Author
Ms. Sampada SawantM.Sc. Foods, Nutrition & Dietetics, CDE.
A life member of the Indian Dietetics Association, she has a varied experience working with, community nutrition, diet consultations, clinical nutrition and Food Industry. Has done research paper presentation at IDA conference 2018 and published a paper in International journal (IJRAR).
She is a passionate Food & Nutrition professional with a warm and friendly demeanor always!
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