Why Pre-Conception Nutrition is Key for a Healthy Pregnancy and Baby

• Optimal nutrition should begin before conception to lay the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and child, as highlighted by Dr. Jyoti P. Kher, Gynecologist & Obstetrician, Kher Hospital, Mumbai.
• Many women, especially in regions like India, enter pregnancy with nutritional shortfalls, including deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, and vitamin B12, despite sufficient calorie intake.
• The earliest weeks of pregnancy are crucial for organ and neural development, necessitating proactive building of nutrient reserves like Folic Acid, Iron, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Iodine, Choline, and Calcium.
• Folic Acid is critical for preventing neural tube defects, while Iron prevents maternal anemia and supports oxygen delivery. Vitamin D aids bone health and immune function.
• A proactive approach combining a nutrient-dense diet with targeted supplementation is vital for minimizing complications and fostering optimal fetal development.

Why It Matters: Prioritizing complete nutrition before conception is crucial for a healthy pregnancy and the long-term well-being of both mother and child.