What Every Pregnant Woman Should Know

Book excerpt: Abstract: Traditional medical treatment of pregnant women is disputed. Contrary to popular medical practice, women should not be limited to 24 lbs. weight gain during pregnancy. Low weight gain leads to low or even underweight infants at birth. Limited weight gain may also be a sign of malnutrition in the pregnant mother. A balanced diet and good nutrition are the best advice for pregnant women. While edema is generally feared as a predecessor of toxemia, it is actually a normal, necessary condition. Water retention assists women during delivery since they are apt to lose large amounts of fluids. Edema is a natural response to the increased hormonal levels of pregnant women. Recent research suggests that toxemia is the result of malnutrition. Low calorie and salt restricted diets only harm the chances for a healthy mother and child. Recipes, protein counter, information directory, bibliography are included.