For the duration of pregnancy, experts recommend that protein intake be a minimum of 60 grams per day. Women having twins or a multiple pregnancy need even more. Protein is required for the physical growth and cellular development of your baby. It is also required for the placenta, amniotic tissues, and maternal tissues. Lactation similarly affects protein, increasing needs by up to 20 grams over nonpregnant women.
Protein is utilized to produce breast milk and nourish the growing baby.
Altogether, pregnancy and lactation significantly impact protein demands. Data show that most women living in developed countries usually consume greater than 60 grams of protein daily, so meeting this minimum is usually not a struggle. Since inadequate protein during pregnancy and lactation jepoardizes the growth and development of your baby, it is important to review your diet to assure adequacy. Poor protein intake during pregnancy increases the risk for having a low birth weight infant and, a recent study suggests, negative effects on fetal brain development. If you do not eat enough protein normally, finding ways to boost your intake is important.