Life is the most marvellous phenomenon, and a new mother needs all the care and support to go through this incredible journey of giving birth. Pregnancy is a wonderful yet critical period. During the pregnancy period, the mother is the sole provider of energy, nutrition, and every other life-sustaining force for both herself and the baby. The body of a mother goes through a major transformation during the pregnancy and nursing period. The right nutrition and nourishment are necessary for a mother to keep herself healthy, support the growth of the baby, and be able to nurse and feed the baby after the delivery.
Ayurveda, an ancient holistic medicinal practice that originated in India, has guided generations to heal and keep themselves healthy. In this article, we will discuss the dietary practices recommended by Ayurveda for women who are going through pregnancy.
The significance of a nutritious diet during pregnancy
Food can be medicine or poison based on what, how, and when you eat it. The food a mother consumes during pregnancy is supposed to nourish both the mother and the baby and help the growth and development of the baby. During the initial months of pregnancy, many mothers experience morning sickness and dislike of certain food items. But the enormous need for nutrients during this period of growth can't be ignored.
According to Ayurveda, balancing the three doshas ( vata, pitta, and kapha) is also crucial to remain healthy during pregnancy and promote the development of the child. The Ayurvedic pregnancy diet focuses on the needs of each developmental stage and is a great way for new mothers to ensure that they and the baby are well nourished.
The first trimester
The first trimester is one of the most crucial periods in pregnancy, where a lot of care is needed. In Ayurveda, every individual has a unique constitution, so their ailments and health conditions are also unique, so the expert opinion of an Ayurvedic physician will definitely help you figure out the best way forward. However, unprocessed milk, almonds, rice, honey, and other dairy items like ghee and yoghurt are said to be good for mothers during this period. Herbs and spices like licorice, cardamom, ginger, Satavari, Bala, and Madhuka are also very beneficial to consume during this stage.
The second trimester
During the second trimester, eating highly nutritious food is essential for the development and growth of the child. Fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, dairy products, and medicated ghee will all provide the nutrients that are essential during this period. Apart from consuming herbs and other medicated and nutritious food, the second trimester is also a period when cravings arise. Don't suppress these urges, but always be careful of what you eat.
The third trimester
The third trimester is a crucial time, and the diet and other regimes of the mother should be planned with care. In the last few months, consuming vegetables, spices, herbs, legumes, grains, and food items that support digestion should be part of the diet of mothers.
Alcohol, caffeine, undercooked food, and food items that are too spicy are advised to be avoided for all these months. Throughout the length of the pregnancy, proper exercise, special routines, and stress-relieving practices like yoga and meditation are also necessary along with diet. An ayurvedic pregnancy diet is designed to bring doshic balance to the body and provide all the nutrients needed for the growth and development of the baby and the health of the mother.
End note
The right Ayurvedic diet and pregnancy routines are bound to create radiant mothers and healthy babies. However, proper consultation and guidance from an experienced Ayurvedic physician is essential, especially during pregnancy. Rasayana Ayurveda Centre is among the best Ayurveda hospitals in Kochi with NABH certification. As an Ayurveda hospital in Kerala, we have created an atmosphere of peace and serenity for our patients to heal and find themselves in Kochi. Connect with us to make an appointment for a consultation and get guidance from our esteemed medical team.