Pregnancy vegetarianism

Pregnancy Vegetarianism is a dietary practice followed by some pregnant women who choose to exclude meat and animal products from their diet. This lifestyle choice can be motivated by health, ethical, environmental, or religious reasons.

Overview

Pregnancy is a period of increased nutritional needs, to support the growing fetus and changes in the mother's body. A well-planned vegetarian diet can meet these needs, providing all the necessary nutrients for both mother and baby.

Nutritional Considerations

A vegetarian diet during pregnancy should be rich in protein, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. These nutrients are essential for the development of the fetus and the health of the mother.

Protein

Protein is essential for the growth of the fetus and the mother's tissues. Vegetarian sources of protein include legumes, nuts and seeds, soy products, and whole grains.

Iron

Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Iron needs increase during pregnancy. Vegetarian sources of iron include legumes, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, and iron-fortified cereals.

Calcium

Calcium is necessary for the development of the baby's bones and teeth. Vegetarian sources of calcium include dairy products (if the diet is lacto-vegetarian), fortified plant milks, tofu, and green leafy vegetables.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium. It can be obtained from sunlight exposure and from fortified foods.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is necessary for the formation of red blood cells and the functioning of the nervous system. It is found only in animal products, so vegetarian pregnant women may need to take a B12 supplement.

Risks and Benefits

A well-planned vegetarian diet can provide all the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. However, poorly planned vegetarian diets may be low in certain nutrients, which can affect the health of the mother and the baby.

See Also

• Vegetarianism
• Pregnancy
• Nutrition during pregnancy

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