8 Mistakes Made During Pregnancy That Endanger the Baby's Development

Pregnancy is considered one of the most sensitive periods for both mother and baby health. Nutritional mistakes during this period can affect not only the mother's energy levels but also the baby's development directly. Incorrect or inadequate eating habits can create the groundwork for difficult-to-reverse health problems.

Some habits shaped by the "eating for two" concept in society can lead to uncontrolled weight gain and metabolic issues. On the other hand, some expectant mothers may become undernourished due to concerns about gaining weight. Both of these approaches can make pregnancy riskier.

Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy is Essential
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Op. Dr. Matanat Chankaya emphasizes that the most important point during pregnancy is not to avoid weight gain but to achieve healthy and controlled weight gain. "The goal in pregnancy is not to diet, but to establish a balanced nutrition plan that will support the baby's development. Excessive nutrition can increase the risk of gestational diabetes, blood pressure problems and developmental delay just as much as inadequate nutrition," she states.

Op. Dr. Chankaya notes that most of the nutritional mistakes made by expectant mothers often stem from daily habits going unnoticed, and underlines that regular monitoring and medical supervision play a critical role in the healthy progression of pregnancy.

Balanced Nutrition During Pregnancy is of Vital Importance
Dietitian Necla Kaygusuz emphasizes that nutrition during pregnancy is not just about calorie counting. She notes that energy and nutrient requirements increase but this increase must be planned consciously. "At each meal, a balance of protein, healthy fats and complex carbohydrates should be maintained. Foods rich in folic acid, iron and calcium should be consumed regularly," she says, drawing attention to the importance of the balanced plate model.

Stating that monotonous diet can prevent adequate intake of vitamins and minerals that the baby needs, Dietitian Kaygusuz reminds that water consumption should be increased in particular and processed foods should be avoided. She also notes that nutrition during pregnancy is important not only for physical but also for psychological well-being, and that balanced nutrition supports the mother's energy levels and mood.

8 Nutritional Mistakes to Avoid During Pregnancy
Critical mistakes to be mindful of during pregnancy are listed as follows:
•    Skipping meals can lead to blood sugar fluctuations due to prolonged hunger and sudden fatigue.
•    Eating for two can cause unnecessary and uncontrolled weight gain.
•    Insufficient water intake can trigger constipation, oedema and blood pressure problems.
•    Consuming raw or undercooked foods can increase the risk of foodborne infection.
•    Using unpasteurised milk and dairy products can create infection risk for both mother and baby.
•    Excessive caffeine consumption can have adverse effects that may increase miscarriage risk.
•    Neglecting iron and folic acid supplementation can create the groundwork for anaemia and developmental problems.
•    Monotonous diet can prevent adequate intake of vitamins and minerals that the baby needs. 

What Should Expectant Mothers Do?
To create a healthy nutrition plan during pregnancy, it is necessary to consume regular meals, increase daily water intake and avoid processed foods. It is important that foods rich in iron, calcium and folic acid are regularly included on the table. "Expectant mothers should not follow random diet lists recommended on social media," warns Op. Dr. Matanat Chankaya, drawing attention to the importance of personalised planning. 

Dietitian Necla Kaygusuz from the Nutrition and Dietetics Department at Özel Erdem Medical Center reminds that every pregnancy is different and emphasizes the need for an individual approach by saying "The nutrition plan should also be determined according to the expectant mother's health condition."

Regular medical supervision and conscious eating habits can protect both the mother's and baby's health. Correcting incorrect practices in the early stages contributes to significantly reducing potential risks.

Obstetrician and Gynaecologist Op. Dr. Matanat Chankaya from Çakmak Erdem Hospital emphasizes that proper nutrition during pregnancy is not a choice but a necessity. "Expectant mothers should not proceed with hearsay information but under medical supervision. A healthy pregnancy is possible with conscious steps," she shares.