THEME: Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures
Monday April 7 is World Health Day and its the day that kicks off a year-long campaign on maternal and newborn health. As the theme suggests Healthy beginnings and hopeful futures will be achieved if governments and the health community step up efforts to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths, and to prioritize women’s longer-term health and well-being.
In support of the call by WHO and in fulfilment of its mandate in promoting healthy eating for good health, Meatless
Monday Ghana reminds all families
especially women expecting pregnancyor already pregnant that moderation in red and processed meat consumption is an important rule in living healthy while pregnant.
While meat is a good source of protein, excessive consumption, especially of red and processed meat, during pregnancy might increase the risk of gestational diabetes and other health issues.
Here are some key considerations from the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology.
Potential Risks of Excessive Meat Consumption
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM): Studies suggest a link between high red and processed meat intake and increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, characterized by high blood sugar levels that usually return to normal after childbirth. Its main symptoms are excessive thirst, frequent urination and unexplained weight loss. If left unmanaged, GDM can lead to complications for both the mother and baby, including:
- Pre-eclampsia;
- Large baby size;
- Increased risk of caesarean delivery;
- Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for the mother; and
- Increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for the baby.
Other Dangers to Note
- Nutritional Imbalances: Over-reliance on meat might lead to deficiencies in other essential nutrients, like fiber, vitamins, and minerals, if other food groups are neglected.
- Uric Acid Levels: High meat consumption, particularly of red meat and organ meats, can increase uric acid levels, which are associated with hypertension, kidney disease, and gout.
- Vitamin A: While organ meats are rich in nutrients, excessive consumption of preformed vitamin A, especially in the first trimester, can lead to congenital malformations.
Recommendations for a Healthy Pregnancy Diet
- Moderation is Key: Consume meat in moderation as part of a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Choose Lean Protein Sources: Choose lean meats like poultry and fish, which are good sources of protein and essential nutrients.
- Cook Meat Thoroughly: Ensure all meat, especially poultry, pork, and sausages, is cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses.
- Focus on Nutrient-Rich Foods: Prioritize foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber such as fruits vegetables and hole grains.
MESSAGE OF THE WEEK
Healthy mothers and healthy babies are the future of our society. Eat healthy and give us healthy young men and women of the future.
Reduce meat consumption and eat more plant-based foods on Mondays for a healthier life.Save your Life-Save the Environment!
