Table of Content

• Importance of protein during pregnancy

• Best protein rich foods during pregnancy

• Protein requirement during pregnancy

• Take-home points

• FAQ on protein requirement during pregnancy

Introduction

Proteins are large biomolecules or macromolecules which is mainly consumed to improve the muscle mass of the body. Proteins are made up of a group of amino acids and they are used to perform variety of functions in the human body like DNA replication, catalyzing metabolic actions, responding to stimuli and helps in transporting molecules. These benefits of protein help in maintaining good health. During pregnancy a healthy lifestyle is of great importance. Eating healthy food gives both mother and the child the required nutrients for growth. Protein is considered to be one of the essential nutrients for growth. In this blog we will discuss importance of protein consumption and the significance during pregnancy.

Importance of protein during pregnancy

Protein plays a vital role during pregnancy. It helps the baby grow normally while contributing to the other important areas of their development. Significance of protein consumption during pregnancy us:

• It helps in the growth and repair of new and damaged tissues of both the mother and the child.

• It helps in production of antibodies for both the mother and the child.

• It helps in generation and production of hormones that are essential during pregnancy for both the mother and the child. 

• Protein is important for the building of muscle mass for both the mother and the child.

• Transportation of oxygen all through the body of the mother and also to the fetus is facilitated by protein consumption. 

• Not having proper protein during pregnancy may lead to weight loss, muscle fatigue, frequent infections and severe fluid retention. 

Best protein rich foods during pregnancy

• Protein based food to be consumed during pregnancy: seafoods, lean meat, soy-based food, beans, peas, nuts and eggs are known to be a great source of protein rich food during pregnancy.

• Protein shakes can also be consumed during pregnancy if recommended by the doctor.

Some good protein rich recipes for pregnancy

• Panchmel dal: It is a combo of five dals flavored with special masala water and whole spices. It can be consumed with roti or paratha. 

• Moong Dal Khichdi: It is a Rajasthani dish which is a good source of folic acid, protein, iron and fiber. It is recommended during the pre-conception period and the first trimester.

• Moong Dal and Paneer tikki : These combination is considered a good source for bone cell growth during pregnancy. These are highly protein packed tikkas.

• Multi flour idli: It is a fabulous rustic flavor dish and has an interesting texture that can be enjoyed during the time of gestation. 

• Fruit and nut milkshake: It is a preferable munchy snack for a pregnant woman. It is equivalent to 7.7 grams of protein per glass. It is quick and easy to make a preferable snack for the evening. 

Protein requirement during pregnancy

There is a total requirement of 71grams of protein per day by a pregnant woman. In order to reach that threshold, the requirement of protein is:

• Cottage cheese (Paneer) provides 28g of protein.

• Poultry provides 26 g of protein.

• Fish provides 17g of protein.

• Lentils provide 9g protein.

• Milk provides 8 g of protein.

• Eggs provide 6g of protein.

• Peanut butter provides 5g of protein.  

Take-home points

Protein is an essential requirement of the diet especially during pregnancy. In order to keep the mother and the fetus healthy the fulfillment of the protein requirement is necessary. Following the required protein diet will lead to a healthy pregnancy. 

References

• NCBI