Abstract
Background: Nutrition, physical activity and lifestyle in pregnancy influence maternal and child health. Expecting parents are often confused by conflicting advice around these topics provided by different sources. Therefore, the Healthy Start - Young Family Network, supported by the German Government with the national action plan IN FORM, has developed harmonized practice recommendations as a communication standard for healthcare professionals and a basis for Network activities. Material and Methods: The recommendations were developed based primarily on existing guidelines, meta-analyses and systematic summaries. Results: Energy needs increase by only 10% by the end of pregnancy whereas micronutrient needs increase much more. Dietary recommendations for pregnant women follow those for the general population. In addition, Folic acid supplements (400 μg/day) are recommended for women planning a pregnancy, and supplementation should be continued at least during the first trimester. Iodine rich foods and salt and an iodine supplement (100 - 150 μg/day) are recommended. Vitamin D supplementation is advisable unless there is regular exposure to sunlight.Iron supplements should be used based on medical history and blood testing. Vegetarian diets with dietary supplements can provide adequate nutrition, but counseling is recommended. In contrast, a vegan diet is inadequate and requires additional micronutrient supplementation. Pregnant women should remain physically active and perform sports with moderate intensity.Conclusion: Healthcare professionals should motivate expectant parents on health-promoting choices. These practice recommendations can serve as a communication standard. To increase awareness of the recommendations the Network offers materials for healthcare professionals and young families, and training for professionals.
Translated title of the contribution | Nutrition in Pregnancy - Practice Recommendations of the Network "Healthy Start - Young Family Network" |
---|---|
Original language | German |
Pages (from-to) | 360-367 |
Number of pages | 8 |
Journal | Aktuelle Ernahrungsmedizin |
Volume | 40 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Dec 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |