Reduction in Fetal Weight
Ensuring the health of the baby begins from the moment of conception. It is crucial for the mother to pay close attention to her diet, activities, and any factor that may affect her child. Occasionally, however, she may be alarmed to learn that her fetus’s weight is below the normal range. In such cases, doctors often recommend dietary adjustments to help increase the fetus’s weight through the consumption of beneficial and nutritious foods.
Diagnosing Fetal Weight Issues
A key factor in diagnosing fetal weight abnormalities is determining the precise gestational age. This can typically be calculated using the first day of the mother’s last menstrual period and confirmed via early ultrasound measurements. Once the actual gestational age is established, the following steps can aid in diagnosing potential weight concerns:
- The fetus’s length does not correspond with the calculated gestational age.
- Ultrasound measurements are smaller than expected for the gestational age.
- Abnormalities appear during routine monthly prenatal examinations.
Causes of Low Fetal Weight
- The mother weighing less than 45 kilograms during pregnancy.
- Poor nutrition during pregnancy, resulting in insufficient intake of essential nutrients for both maternal and fetal health.
- Congenital anomalies or chromosomal defects.
- Use of drugs, cigarettes, or alcohol.
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension.
- Placental abnormalities that hinder the adequate delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus.
- Cord abnormalities that also impede the proper supply of nutrients and oxygen.
- Carrying multiple fetuses.
- The presence of gestational diabetes in the mother.
- Low levels of amniotic fluid.
Foods to Promote Fetal Weight Gain
- High-fiber fruits such as bananas and apples, along with vegetables, dairy products, and whole grains, are essential for healthy fetal growth and should be consumed by mothers from the early months of pregnancy until delivery.
- Protein-rich foods like red meats and eggs, combined with healthy oils (such as olive oil) when cooking, can effectively contribute to fetal weight gain.
- Healthy fats found in seeds, nuts, and fish like salmon are beneficial. Nuts, for instance, can serve as nutritious snacks between meals.
- Homemade natural juices made from fruits can provide beneficial calories for the fetus, along with natural sweeteners, making them an excellent choice for mothers.
Note: If dietary changes do not yield results, the physician may prescribe medication to support fetal weight gain, ensuring the baby is born in good health.
Risks of Low Birth Weight
- Oxygen deprivation at birth.
- Ingestion of meconium (the first stool) by the baby.
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
- Elevated red blood cell counts.
- Reduced blood flow due to increased red blood cell levels.
- Weakened immunity and generalized health issues in the newborn.
- Potential mortality in severe, unaddressed cases.