Nutrition during the trimesters
First trimester
Nutritional needs
50% increase in need for vitamins and
minerals; folate, zinc & iron.
Hindering factors
Immune systems of both the child and the mother
tend to weaken.
Certain food items have the ability to harm the baby
(Ex. Uncooked meats and fish, raw/unpasteurized milk)
Facilitating Factors
Consumption of vitamin B6 may help reduce nausea
and morning sickness for the mother around this time of pregnancy.
Second trimester
Nutritional needs
Required proteins, carbohydrates, anything that
helps fuel an individual with energy.
Additional 300 Kcals are necessary during the second
trimester.
Hindering factors
Similar to that of the first trimester, raw foods
should be avoided, due to their risk of causing foodborne illnesses and pathogens. These pathogens have the potential to lead to a miscarriage, deformities, etc.
Facilitating Factors
Foods rich in Omega-3 (nuts, seeds, plant oils, cooked
fish), green veggies, carbs
Third trimester
Nutritional needs
Fiber-rich diet can help mother decrease heartburn,
as well as constipation.
Additional 450 Kcals required for consumptions
Hindering Factors
The baby pushing against the mothers the mother's
internal organs can lead to heartburn.
Avoid processed and fast foods to prevent
cardiovascular complications, as heartburn is already experienced.
Facilitating Factors
Whole grains (Whole wheat bread, etc.), proteins (Chicken, legumes, etc)