Dietary mistakes pregnant women should avoid during summer heat
Nutrition and Diet Specialist Çisem Gündüz Can warned about dietary mistakes made by pregnant women in the summer months and what to pay attention to regarding fluid intake.
Summer heat can lead to health problems such as fatigue, low blood pressure, and edema by increasing fluid loss during pregnancy. Experts issue warnings regarding proper nutrition and fluid intake during this period.
Fluid Intake in Summer Months
Increased sweating and fluid loss with the summer heat can trigger complaints such as fatigue, low blood pressure, and edema in expectant mothers. Experts recommend drinking water sip by sip throughout the day during this period without waiting to feel thirsty.
The Importance of the Required Amount of Water
Although the daily amount of water that needs to be consumed varies from person to person, consuming approximately 2.5 to 3 liters of water per day is generally considered sufficient for many pregnant women.
Common Dietary Mistakes
Among the frequent mistakes made by pregnant women in the summer months are skipping meals, consuming sugary cold drinks instead of water, and suppressing hunger only with simple snacks.
Portion Control in Fruit Consumption
Fruits with a high glycemic index such as watermelon, melon, figs, dates, and grapes need to be consumed with portion control, and blood sugar should be balanced by adding cheese or walnuts next to them.
Safe Beverage Alternatives
Stating that the best cold beverage choice is water, experts indicate that in addition to water, mineral water, buttermilk (ayran), and homemade sugar-free lemonade can also be consumed safely.
Food Safety and Risks
Due to bacteria multiplying faster in the summer heat, foods sold in the open, dairy products that are not well refrigerated, and meat and seafood that have been left waiting for a long time should not be consumed.