Recreating Eden
Prenatal Nutrition
An expecting mother has the joy and the responsibility of creating an inner paradise for a life hidden to human eyes. Most mothers take great care to create the best environment they can for their unborn child. They create a sort of Eden, even at great sacrifice to themselves.
Among the many sacrifices women make is to suffer through pains and medical conditions, choosing not to take anything. While avoiding herbs, over-the-counter medications, homeopathics, and certain prescriptions may be wise, the same logic does not apply to nutrients. On the contrary, some pains and conditions are body signals for more nutrients. A good rule of thumb is that nutrients which help expectant mothers are also good for baby. The following are several examples:
Omega-3 fats.
Our space–age diets are low in omega-3 fats and high in trans fats, a sort of anti-nutrient. Many pregnant women benefit from supplemental omega-3 fats to reduce the risk of postpartum depression, premature labor, and placental problems. These fats may also help fetal vision and intellect.
Vitamin C.
Sugar and starch increase the need for vitamin C. Ample vitamin C is important for expectant mothers to work from the inside-out to prevent stretch marks and possibly varicose veins. The fetus needs vitamin C especially for the musculoskeletal system.
Protein.
Morning sickness tends to make expectant mothers eat less protein at a time when the need for protein doubles. When dietary protein is lacking, protein is taken from the mother’s muscles.
Minerals.
Pregnant women tend to be low in many different minerals, which increases susceptibility to toxins such as mercury and lead. Minerals and toxic metals reach the fetal brain where they exert much influence on development. While iron is important for maternal blood count and calcium for healthy bones, it is less well-known that chromium deficiency may contribute to gestational diabetes, and magnesium to swelling.
Carnitine.
Vegetarians and women who are overweight may not get enough carnitine to burn fat. The breastfeeding infant needs carnitine to convert milk fat into energy. Carnitine has recently been added to all infant formulas and it is important for the breastfed baby as well. Carnitine helps mothers burn the fat gained during pregnancy.
B vitamins.
Stress, sugar and starches all deplete the body of B vitamins. Folate, B6 and B12 help expectant mothers prevent yeast infections and improve concentration, mood and energy. Because folate helps repair damaged DNA, it prevents birth defects.
Feel free to share this information written by a mom for moms. More information on restoring suboptimal levels of nutrients during pregnancy is available from INGRIDients upon request.