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Writer's pictureVikash Sharma

Preventing Birth Defects with a Healthy Pregnancy Diet


Indians and their dietary habits

Pregnancy is a crucial time for both the mother and the developing fetus. A healthy diet during pregnancy can help prevent birth defects and ensure the proper growth and development of the baby. In India, traditional dietary practices often include a balance of fruits, vegetables, grains, and lentils, providing a good foundation for a healthy pregnancy diet. However, there are certain nutrient deficiencies and cultural factors that may affect the diet of pregnant women in India. Therefore, it is important for expectant mothers to be aware of their specific nutritional needs during pregnancy and make informed choices about their diet. This article will explore the importance of a healthy pregnancy diet in the Indian context and provide practical tips and recommendations for maintaining a balanced diet during this special time.

Role of key nutrients during pregnancy

According to a study conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), nearly 50% of pregnant women in India suffer from anemia, a condition caused by a lack of iron in the diet. Anemia during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight, preterm delivery, and even maternal death. To prevent anemia, pregnant women should include iron-rich foods in their diet such as lean meats, beans, lentils, and leafy greens.

Folic acid is another essential nutrient during pregnancy, as it helps to prevent neural tube defects in the developing fetus. According to the ICMR, only about 15% of pregnant women in India consume the recommended daily intake of folic acid. To get enough folic acid, pregnant women should consume leafy greens, oranges, and fortified breakfast cereals. Pregnancy is a crucial time for both the mother and the developing fetus. A healthy diet during pregnancy can help prevent birth defects and ensure the proper growth and development of the baby. In India, traditional dietary practices often include a balance of fruits, vegetables, grains, and lentils, providing a good foundation for a healthy pregnancy diet. However, there are certain nutrient deficiencies and cultural factors that may affect the diet of pregnant women in India. Therefore, it is important for expectant mothers to be aware of their specific nutritional needs during pregnancy and make informed choices about their diet. This article will explore the importance of a healthy pregnancy diet in the Indian context and provide practical tips and recommendations for maintaining a balanced diet during this special time.


Calcium is also important for the growth and development of the baby's bones and teeth. The ICMR recommends a daily intake of 1000mg of calcium for pregnant women. Good sources of calcium include milk, yogurt, and other dairy products, as well as leafy greens and fortified foods such as orange juice.

Protein is essential for the growth and development of the fetus, as well as for the mother's own health. Pregnant women should aim for at least 70g of protein per day. lean meats, fish, beans, lentils, and eggs are good sources.

Another important nutrient is Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which are important for the development of the baby's brain and eyes. Pregnant women should aim to consume at least 200mg of DHA per day. Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish such as salmon and tuna, as well as fortified foods and supplements.

Vitamin D is also important for the absorption of calcium and the development of the baby's bones. Pregnant women should aim for at least 600-800IU of vitamin D per day. Good sources of vitamin D are fatty fish, fortified foods, and exposure to sunlight.

Why prenatal vitamins are a must during pregnancy?

In addition to consuming a variety of nutrient-dense foods, pregnant women in India should also consider taking prenatal tablets and limiting their intake of processed foods, added sugars, and saturated fats. Multivitamin for pregnant women is important because they provide a concentrated source of the essential nutrients that a developing fetus needs to grow and develop properly. These vitamins are specifically formulated to meet the increased nutritional needs of pregnant women, and can help to prevent birth defects, low birth weight, and other complications.


Trimacare™ is a unique 3-stage pregnancy multivitamin course, customized for each trimester of pregnancy. This unique formula is based on the Multi-Micronutrients (MMN) model and the Iron, Folate, Calcium (IFC) model as suggested by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Each stage of Trimacare™ pregnancy multivitamins is specially formulated to provide the essential nutrients your body needs during each trimester of pregnancy.

Trimacare™ is designed to provide you with all the essential nutrients you need during pregnancy in one convenient, easy-to-take supplement. It is also vegetarian, which makes it accessible for all pregnant women who follow a vegetarian diet.

Choose Trimacare™ for a customized, complete nutrition solution during each trimester of your pregnancy. Give your baby the best start in life by providing the essential nutrients they need during these critical months of development.

Another study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology of India found that pregnant women in India are also at a higher risk of gestational diabetes due to a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Prenatal multivitamin tablet and adequate hydration are also important for the health of both the mother and the baby. By following these guidelines, expectant mothers in India can help to prevent birth defects and ensure a healthy pregnancy for themselves and their babies.

It is important to note that the information provided here is general and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Pregnant women should always consult with a healthcare professional regarding their specific nutritional needs and any concerns about their pregnancy.

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