Does food we eat changes the taste and nutrients of milk for the baby, can we eat spicy foods or foods that may cause gas while breastfeeding?

Although strong flavors such as garlic can change the smell and flavor of breast milk, this does not cause any harm to the baby , it is common for mothers to be warned to avoid “gassy foods” such as cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli. Eating such foods can cause gas in the mother's bowel; however, gas and fiber do not pass into breast milk. Similarly, acidic foods like citrus fruits, pineapple, and tomatoes do not affect breast milk. However substances like excessive caffeine , alcohol could cause harm to the baby. (Source : National Library of medicine U.S.)

Could we give eggs to children after 6 months, should we only give egg white?

Yes you can give eggs to children after 6 months of age , eggs are excellent source of protein and numerous vitamins and minerals. When introducing new foods to baby, it’s always a good idea to add them slowly and one at a time, thus it is best to start with small amount and gradually increase the amount with time.

Strictly avoid giving soft boiled or undercooked eggs as they carry disease-causing organisms like Salmonella which may cause food poisoning. Avoid giving egg yolks on their own as they can turn into a choking hazard. Cooked egg yolks can be sticky or even dry, and, in turn, difficult to eat without chewing. Instead, offer some of the yolk together with the white, preferably mashed together or you can just start with egg whites and gradually introduce the yolk.

What is diabetes during pregnancy and do I need to be worried?

Type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy in women who don’t already have diabetes is referred as gestational diabetes. It can happen at any stage of pregnancy, but is more common in the second or third trimester.

It happens when your body cannot produce enough insulin – a hormone that helps control blood sugar levels – to meet your extra needs in pregnancy.

Gestational diabetes can cause problems for you and your baby during pregnancy and after birth. However you don't need to be worried as the the risks can be reduced if the condition is detected early and well managed with diet and regular exercise , in some cases you might also have to take insulin. (Source : CDC , NHS UK)

Is it normal to crave things that are not food like ash, chalk, clay or paint chips during pregnancy?

No, it's not normal to crave non-food substances during pregnancy. This may mean that you’re not getting the right amount of a nutrient. Talk to your health care professional or dietitian if you crave something that isn’t food. (Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, U.S.)

How much weight should I gain during my pregnancy?

How much weight you should gain depends on your health and how much you weighed before pregnancy :

If you were at a normal weight before pregnancy, you should gain about between 11.5 and 16 kilograms. If you were underweight before pregnancy, you should gain more, around between 12.5 and 18 kilograms. If you were overweight before you become pregnant, you should gain less, around between 7 and 11.5 kilograms.

You should gain the weight gradually during your pregnancy. During the first 3 months, the baby is only the size of a walnut and doesn’t need many extra calories. The following rate of weight gain is advised :
 0.5 to around 2 kg total in the first 3 months

 Around 1 to 2 kg each month from 4 months until delivery

Check with your dietitian to find out how much weight gain during pregnancy is healthy for you. (Source : National library of medicine , National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases U.S. , Institute of Medicine and National Research Council. 2009 )

Should I be worried about weight gain during pregnancy?

Weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy and weight loss is strictly not recommended during pregnancy as it can be harmful to the health of the growing baby , could cause preterm birth and low birth weight.

However, gaining a lot of weight in pregnancy also have a higher risk of certain health problems and complications during childbirth such as macrosomia (baby's birth weight being high), needing a C-section,increased risk of gestational diabetes and pregnancy related high blood pressure. Very fast and extreme weight gain can be a sign of health problems such as pre-eclampsia.

A dietitian would be able to guide you on avoiding excessive weight gain while ensuring you are eating well. (Source : British Dietetics Association , National Library of medicine U.S.)

Are there special diet recommendations for breastfeeding mothers who are vegetarian or vegan?

Breastfed infants of women who do not consume any animal products may have very limited amounts of vitamin B12 in their bodies. These low amounts of vitamin B12 can put their infants at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, which can result in neurological damage. Iron may also be of concern as plant source foods only contain non-heme iron, which is less bioavailable than heme iron. The American Dietetic Association recommends vitamin B12 supplementation during pregnancy and while breastfeeding for mothers who eat vegan or vegetarian diets. Some might also need supplementation of iron and other nutrients such as choline, zinc, iodine, or omega-3 fats (EPA/DHA). (Source: CDC)

Is it normal to be short of breath during pregnancy?

Yes, it’s perfectly normal. Shortness of breath can start early in pregnancy , it has to do with how pregnancy hormones affect the lungs. But if you have shortness of breath along with chest pain, a cough, or heart palpitations, if you’re feeling faint, or if there’s a major change in your breathing, then you need to contact your doctor. (Source: Anne Srisuro, MD ,Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Besides iron and folic acid what vitamins do I need during pregnancy?

You need to have a balanced diet during pregnancy to meet required need of all the vitamins and minerals. Besides folic acid and iron vitamins like iodine (food sources: iodized table salt, eggs, dairy products), calcium (food sources: milk and other dairy products, green leafy vegetables, tofu ), vitamin D (sources: sunlight, egg, fish, red meat), choline (food sources: eggs, meat, beans, lentils), omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin C (food sources: oranges, amla, broccoli,  red and green peppers) are also very important. (Source : CDC , NHS Uk)

Should I wash my nipples before breast-feeding?

Washing your nipples before breastfeeding isn’t necessary. When babies are born, they are already very familiar with their own mother’s smells and sounds. The nipples produce a substance that the baby smells and has ‘good bacteria’ that helps to build babies’ own healthy immune system for life. (Source:UNICEF)