Doctor Bernardi, expert of the Sanpellegrino Observatory, explains how proper hydration helps to deal with the various stages of pregnancy
Pregnancy is a special moment in every woman's life, made of expectation, joy but also of change. The body adapts to allow the growth of the baby and this process also needs adequate hydration.
Water is essential to eliminate toxins, help digestion and ensure the natural absorption of essential nutrients from our diet. During pregnancy these functions acquire even more importance as a constantly changing body and the growth of a baby require optimal physical conditions.
Water is also needed to produce the fluid that surrounds the baby and to help increase blood volume. Plasma, the liquid phase of blood, accounts for about 3 liters in adults. In pregnancy, the plasma volume increases up to 40-50% above the pre-pregnancy value. This increase in blood volume is necessary for the vascularization of the placenta which allows the maternal-fetal exchange of nutrients and other compounds.
"Pregnant women need greater fluid intake due to physiological changes in the mother and for fetal growth," says Dr. Elisabetta Bernardi, Biologist Specialist in Food Science and member of the Sanpellegrino Observatory. “According to SINU - the Italian Society of Human Nutrition - the adequate intake of water (ml / day) for pregnant women is 2350 ml / day about 10 glasses a day. While breastfeeding, the daily intake should increase to thirteen glasses per day. Also, if you suffer from morning sickness, you lose some extra fluids, so it's important to try and drink a little more to remedy this too. " Concludes Doctor Bernardi.
A recent study [1] analyzed the impact of proper hydration on the last stage of pregnancy and delivery. Significant differences in hydration levels were related to the difference in weight and length of the unborn child. In the group with the lowest hydration levels, they were 596,1 g and 1,8 cm lower than the properly hydrated group, respectively.
A correct intake of water therefore helps to keep all the physiological systems of the body efficient. By hydrating properly, kidney functions are lightened and any urinary tract infections can be reduced. In addition, drinking plenty of water helps women to promote intestinal regularity and to fight water retention.