Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients that our bodies require in large amounts. They provide us with energy, and pregnant women need plenty of energy to sustain both themselves and their growing fetus.

Here are some reasons why carbohydrates are important for pregnant women:.

Carbohydrates Provide Energy

Carbohydrates are our primary source of energy. When we eat carbohydrates, our body breaks them down into glucose, which is then used to fuel our cells.

Pregnant women need even more energy than non-pregnant women because they are growing a baby inside their body. The baby requires a lot of energy to grow and develop, so pregnant women need to make sure that they are eating enough carbohydrates to meet their increased energy needs.

Carbohydrates Help Build Tissue

Carbohydrates are an important building block for many of the tissues in our body. For example, the placenta, which is the organ that provides oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus, is made up of a lot of carbohydrates.

Carbohydrates are also an important component of breastmilk, which provides nutrition to babies after they are born.

Carbohydrates Help Prevent Constipation

Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy, and eating a diet that is high in fiber can help prevent it.

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that cannot be digested by the human body, but it helps keep our digestive system healthy by promoting regular bowel movements. Pregnant women who eat plenty of fiber-rich carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are less likely to experience constipation.

Carbohydrates Help Regulate Blood Sugar

Pregnant women are at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, which is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.

Eating a diet that is high in carbohydrates can help regulate blood sugar levels and prevent the development of gestational diabetes. However, it is important to choose the right types of carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are better for regulating blood sugar levels than simple carbohydrates, such as sugar and white bread.

Carbohydrates Provide Essential Nutrients

Many carbohydrate-rich foods are also good sources of essential nutrients that pregnant women need, such as folate, iron, and calcium.

For example, leafy greens are high in folate, which is important for preventing birth defects, while fortified cereals are often high in iron, which is important for preventing anemia.

How Much Carbohydrates Should Pregnant Women Eat?

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, pregnant women should aim to get about 45-65% of their daily calories from carbohydrates. However, it is important to choose the right types of carbohydrates.

Complex carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are better for providing sustained energy and promoting good health than simple carbohydrates, such as sugar and white bread. Pregnant women should also aim to get enough fiber, which can help prevent constipation.

Conclusion

Carbohydrates are an important part of a healthy diet for anyone, but they are especially important for pregnant women.

Pregnant women need plenty of energy to sustain themselves and their growing fetus, and carbohydrates are the body’s primary source of energy. Eating a diet that is high in healthy complex carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help provide essential nutrients, prevent constipation, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote good health for both mother and baby.