MULTIPLE ROLES OF FOOD
We spoke to Janice Chong, a Dietitian from Nutrition and Dietetics Services at Mount Alvernia Hospital. She explained that a nourishing diet can ensure a good balance of hormones and thus increase a woman’s chances of conceiving. During pregnancy, a good diet provides nutrition for the growing baby while maintaining the mother’s health. It also helps the mother cope with the physical demands of delivery, and prepares her body for the successful production of breast milk.

Clearly, food plays an important role every 'baby step' of the way.

CONCEPTION CUISINE
Janice acknowledged that food-related theories surrounding motherhood abound.
For example, coconut water is supposedly a lubricant to shorten labour time, and eating oysters is supposed to enhance fertility. However, Janice cautioned that most of these theories are not scientifically proven.

"To ensure healthy parenting milestones, the diet should be varied, healthy and balanced throughout the day. It should come from four food groups, namely: Rice & Alternatives, Fruits, Vegetables and Meat & Alternatives, “ advised Janice. “For ladies who are trying to conceive, it is advisable to take a folate supplement before falling pregnant to reduce the baby's risk of neural tube defects."

A WEIGHTY ISSUE
Janice emphasised the wisdom of maintaining a healthy body weight when planning for impending parenthood.

"Some women who have excess body weight may experience hormonal imbalances that can affect their menstrual cycles and their chances of conceiving," shared Janice.

Conception aside, Janice shared that overweight and obese women are at an increased risk of several pregnancy problems. These include gestational diabetes, high blood pressure during pregnancy, preterm birth and cesarean delivery. Babies of overweight and obese mothers are also at greater risk of certain problems, such as birth defect, macrosomia with possible birth injury and childhood obesity.

TABOO FOODS
During pregnancy, it is important that expecting mothers pay particular attention to food safety. Food should be hygienically prepared and well cooked to avoid getting food poisoning.

Once again separating science from old wives’ tales, Janice explained that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that certain foods eaten while breastfeeding can cause a baby to experience discomfort. In general, a basic healthy diet will ensure that a baby get all the nutrients he or she needs through breast milk. However, some babies are more sensitive than others and may have adverse reactions when a nursing mother eats strongly flavoured foods such as garlic and onions. Another example is caffeinated drinks, which may cause hyperactivity or sleeping problems in a baby. Janice recommends watching a baby’s response and reducing the intake of offending foods accordingly.

Last but not least, mothers should avoid taking any types of alcoholic beverages during breastfeeding, as alcohol will pass through breast milk and risk affecting the baby’s development and milk supply.

BREAST AID
While anecdotal evidence suggests that applying cabbage leaves over swollen breasts can cause some relief, Janice stresses that breastfeeding mothers who are experiencing pain should see a lactation consultant.

"Mummies, please remember to breastfeed on demand and express breast milk regularly. Some massages may help to ease the discomfort and to prevent engorgement," urged Janice.

EAT WELL FOR NEW LIFE AND FOR LONG LIFE
Of course, if a woman’s diet is healthy to begin with, few if any adjustments need to be made during pregnancy. Furthermore, the parenting journey is joyous, yet tiring. Ideally, eating well should continue beyond pregnancy and breastfeeding, throughout parenthood and into… grandparenthood!

With thanks to:

Janice Chong Phaik Heang
Dietitian
Nutrition and Dietetics Services, Mount Alvernia Hospital