Home » blog » What should we eat to form the heart of the fetus?

What should we eat to form the heart of the fetus?

• Dr. Saeed Bitarafan
• April 10, 2023

The question that arises for many pregnant mothers is whether food has an effect on the formation of the fetal heart or not? This article talks about foods that affect the development of the heart of the fetus.

What factors affect the development of the heart of my fetus?

As most pregnant women know, there are things that can affect the health of the heart of your fetus. These items include:

• Chromosomal abnormalities: 50% of babies with Down syndrome have congenital heart problems
• Other genetic defects: If a gene is made abnormally it can lead to congenital heart defects
• Diabetes: Lack of blood sugar control in pregnant women with diabetes can increase the risk of heart defects in the fetus
• Rubella (German rubella): Fortunately, rubella is a rare disorder today. However, obstetricians and gynecologists recommend that a rubella test be performed to confirm whether the mother is protected against German measles in the early stages of pregnancy.
• Drugs or substance abuse
• Unwanted chemical exposure: Paints, solvents, pesticides. Air pollutants such as trichlorethylene; And also dangerous radiation should be avoided

The best What are the foods for fetal health?

Pregnant women should regularly consume a diet rich in whole grains, leafy vegetables and lean proteins. However, in some cases, expectant mothers may emphasize mineral-rich and nutritious foods. The most important minerals that significantly affect the development of the fetal heart are calcium, copper, phosphorus and thiamine.

Milk is rich in calcium and can be consumed daily in 1000 and 700 mg respectively. Eat at least 1 mg of cashews, kidney beans daily, as they are a good source of copper. Finally, eat about 1.4 mg of oats, mostly peas and meat, meat products are a rich source of thiamine.

4- Eat protein-rich foods

Protein-rich foods are essential for a pregnant woman as well as for her growing baby. Chicken, lean meat, turkey, fish, etc. are good options for protein for non-vegetarians, and lentils, beans, cheese, etc. are good options for vegetarian women. Proteins are full of amino acids and also act as building blocks for your baby's growth.

5- Add whole grains to your diet

Whole grains such as wheat, barley, rye, rice and other such grains are good for heart health. You should substitute these healthier options for refined flour foods. You should choose unprocessed, whole, and unrefined grains because they are healthier for you and your baby. You can make different foods using whole grains according to your taste.

Although the mentioned foods are extremely safe and can be added to your daily diet, but if you suffer from diseases like high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid, etc., you should be careful before making any major changes in your diet. We suggest that you consult your doctor before making any changes.

Foods which slow down the growth of the fetal heart

The nutrition of your developing fetus is related to your nutrition. This means that everything you eat affects your baby. While there are some foods that are proven to be beneficial for your baby's heart development. There are also things that can affect it negatively.

The following are some foods that you should avoid or keep under control:

1- Consider the amount of sodium you consume and keep it under 3 grams per day.

2- Make sure that your cholesterol intake does not exceed 300 mg per day.

3- Do not add more than 30% of fat to your daily pregnancy diet. Aim for healthy fats.

4- Avoid monosodium glutamate or MSG because it may lead to fetal growth problems.

5- Limit your caffeine intake.

Dr. Saeed Bitarafan pediatric cardiologist and fetal echocardiologist

Table of contents

Dr. Saeed Bitarafan

Office address

Tehran, Pasdaran, between 9th and 10th Bostan, Bostan Building, No. 297, South Yard, 3rd Floor, Unit 38

office hours

All days of the week except Tuesdays by appointment

Contact number

021-22792481-021-22792694 - 09028888530