Pregnancy nutrition serves as a long-term health shield for mothers

Obstetrician Op. Dr. Gültekin Koç from Medicana International İzmir Hospital emphasizes that proper nutrition during pregnancy serves as a shield for a mother's long-term health, rather than just supporting fetal development.

Nutrition plans should be individualized based on age, pre-pregnancy weight, lifestyle, and existing chronic conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. Experts recommend a controlled weight gain of approximately 9 to 13 kilograms throughout the pregnancy, with a target of 1-2 kilograms in the first trimester and an average of 350 grams per week thereafter. Uncontrolled weight gain increases the risk of high blood pressure and gestational diabetes.

To protect maternal health, it is vital to maintain nutrient stores, particularly calcium, to prevent depletion from the mother's bones and teeth to support the baby. Recommendations include avoiding processed foods, limiting salt intake, and reducing consumption of tea, coffee, and cola, which can negatively impact iron absorption.