Fetal development takes nutrition from the mothers. Therefore, right from the beginning of pregnancy, pregnant women should actively equip themselves with knowledge of nutrition and health care to take care of themselves and their babies thoroughly. In particular, from the fourth month onwards, the fetuses' bones begin to be formed and develop. If the fetuses are given good care, the babies can reach a height of 50 cm after birth. This is extremely important to the future physical development of the child as it creates a foundation for their future height growth.
To support the height growth of the fetuses, pregnant women should enhance the following foods in their diets:
Milk and dairy products
In addition to essential minerals, such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and many other vitamins, drinking a glass of milk helps your body get up to 300 grams of calcium. Calcium and these minerals are very important to the bone formation of the fetuses. Therefore, pregnant women should drink two glasses of milk per day and eat other dairy products, like yogurt, cheese, etc.
Eggs
Eggs are rich in protein and vitamin D which are very good for the mothers as well as for the height growth of the fetuses. Vitamin D participates in calcium synthesis and bone mineralization, thereby increasing the length of the bones. The taste of eggs is quite good so pregnant women should not forget to add eggs to their daily diets.
Salmon
Salmon has a high content of omega-3 fatty acids, which is very good for the nervous system as well as the height growth of the fetuses. Additionally, Omega 3 minimizes the risks of preterm birth and postpartum depression and ensures health for the mothers to take care of the fetuses as well as the newborns.
Beans
Beans are high in calcium, vitamins, and fiber which are good for the health of the mothers as well as the fetuses. Adequate calcium supplementation is necessary for the bone formation and bone growth of the fetuses. Moreover, protein in beans improves the quantity of tissues and cells and promotes the height growth and weight of the fetuses.
Fruits
Fruits that are rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, fiber, and folate, such as kiwi, orange, banana, and grape, will positively affect the synthesis and metabolism of nutrients in the mothers' bodies. As a result, the fetuses easily absorb the nutrients from the mothers for the growth in height and weight.
Seafood
Talking about calcium-rich foods, it is impossible not to mention seafood. Seafood, such as shrimps, crabs, oysters, and squid, is good for the bone formation and bone growth of the fetuses. Minerals in seafood also play a role in bringing calcium to the bones, which supports the height growth of the fetuses.
Whole grains
Incorporating whole grains into your pregnancy diet is a wise choice for several reasons. Options, such as oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread are excellent sources of complex carbohydrates, which provide a steady release of energy throughout the day. This sustained energy is particularly valuable during pregnancy when your body is working hard to support your baby's growth and development.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are nutritional powerhouses that can greatly benefit both you and your developing baby during pregnancy. Almonds, for example, are packed with healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats, which provide a steady source of energy and help in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamin E.
Legumes
Legumes are an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for the growth and repair of tissues in your body and your baby's developing organs. They are also rich in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation—a common discomfort during pregnancy. This fiber content not only supports digestive health but also helps stabilize blood sugar levels, providing sustained energy throughout the day.
Poultry
The lean nature of poultry makes it an ideal choice to provide the necessary nutrients without excessive saturated fat, which can be less healthy when consumed in excess during pregnancy. Therefore, incorporating chicken and turkey into your meals can help ensure that you and your baby receive the protein and nutrients required for optimal growth and development.
Water
Staying well-hydrated is essential during pregnancy to support overall health and ensure the body functions optimally.
Is there anything else?
In addition to adequate nutritional supplementation, pregnant women need to eat properly and enhance essential nutrients by the requirements of each stage of pregnancy.
- In the first trimester of the pregnancy, to be good for the health of the mothers and the fetuses, pregnant women should sufficiently provide 200 - 300 calories per day to their bodies and their weights only need to increase by 1 - 2.5 kg.
- The second trimester of the pregnancy is when the fetuses' bones begin to form, pregnant women should enhance animal source foods, oilseeds, and fresh vegetables in their diets and drink plenty of milk.
- In the last trimester, pregnant women should eat a little bit more than in the first trimester and the second trimester to help the fetuses grow well and help themselves stay healthy to go through the birth.
Height plays an important role in our lives and people with good height will have more advantages professionally and personally. Therefore, pregnant women should build proper diets for themselves and sufficiently supplement essential nutrients to their bodies to support the height growth of the fetuses as well as facilitate the height growth of their babies later on.
Conclusion,
The role of nutrition during pregnancy in shaping the future height of your children cannot be overstated. This article has highlighted the critical link between maternal nutrition and a child's growth potential, emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. By providing your body with the right nourishment during pregnancy, you not only support your health but also lay the foundation for your child's optimal growth and development. It is a testament to the profound impact that a mother's choices can have on her child's future. So, remember that investing in proper nutrition today can lead to taller and healthier tomorrows for your little ones.
- Related post: Nutrition tips for significant height growth
