Role of food protein Growth of foetus. Development of placenta. Enlargement of maternal tissues. Increased maternal tissues.

sues. Increased maternal blood volume. Formation of amniotic fluid. Protein reserves prepares the mother for labour , delivery and lactation Second and third trimester requires additional protein. Folic acid (RDA-400g/d) helps the maternal blood formation, improves birth weights of the foetus and prevents fetal neural tube defects. Zinc is required for RNA and DNA synthesis and important role in reproduction, its deficiency can result in poor pregnancy outcomes and abnormal deliveries including congenital malformations. Insufficient iodine can result in still birth, birth defects and decreased fetal brain development.

Calcium is required for development of teeth and bones of the fetus. Proper Calcium intake will reduce pre-eclampsia, hypertension low birth weights. Maintains bone strength and proper muscle contraction.