What should pregnant women eat to support healthy fetal heart development?

The heart is one of the earliest organs to form in the fetus and continues to develop throughout pregnancy. According to Dr. Ami Shah, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Swar Maternity Home (India), besides genetic factors, the mother's diet also directly affects fetal heart development, because what the mother eats each day is the source of nutrients that helps this organ develop more healthily.

Meat, fish, and eggs are excellent sources of protein for pregnant women. Photo: Freepik .

Protein

Protein has long been considered a top priority nutrient during pregnancy. During this period, protein is involved in the formation of heart muscle cells and heart tissue, and supports the development of the nervous system.

Pregnant women typically have higher-than-normal protein requirements to support the continuous growth of the fetus. Prolonged protein deficiency can lead to delayed fetal development or affect organ formation. Healthy sources of protein include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and nuts.

Folic acid

Folic acid (folate) is one of the most talked-about nutrients during pregnancy because it is directly related to the formation of the neural tube and the development of the fetal heart in the early stages.

The fetal heart begins to form just weeks after conception, so a folate deficiency in early pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, including heart defects.

This is also why women are advised to supplement with folic acid even before pregnancy or during the first three months of pregnancy. Folate is abundant in dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits, and whole grains.

Iron

Iron not only helps prevent anemia but also plays a crucial role in the cardiovascular development of the fetus. During pregnancy, the amount of blood in the mother's body increases significantly to nourish the baby, causing a corresponding increase in iron requirements. This mineral helps create hemoglobin – the component that transports oxygen in the blood to the placenta and fetus.

If iron is deficient, the fetus may not receive enough oxygen necessary for the development of its heart and other organs. Prolonged iron deficiency in pregnant mothers also increases the risk of premature birth or low birth weight.

Omega-3

Omega-3s, especially DHA, are considered essential nutrients for both the brain and cardiovascular system of the fetus. These fatty acids participate in the formation of cell membranes and support the functioning of the cardiovascular system from the time the fetus is in the womb.

Some studies suggest that adequate omega-3 intake during pregnancy may support healthy fetal heart development and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems later in life. Natural sources of omega-3s are commonly found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel, as well as nuts and vegetable oils.

Magnesium

Magnesium is also an essential mineral during pregnancy, but it is often overlooked. It helps maintain stable blood pressure, supports muscle contraction, and regulates heart rate. For the fetus, magnesium is involved in tissue development, the cardiovascular system, and many important metabolic reactions in the body.

Some studies also suggest that magnesium deficiency may be linked to an increased risk of gestational hypertension or cramps in pregnant women. Magnesium is abundant in whole grains, bananas, avocados, dark leafy greens, and nuts.

Source: https://znews.vn/me-bau-nen-an-gi-de-ho-tro-tim-thai-phat-trien-khoe-manh-post1653245.html