The importance of adequate fluid and fibre intake during pregnancy

Dietary advice about fluid and fibre for pregnant women is limited in comparison to information on folic acid. Low intakes of these nutrients can affect the health status of pregnant women. Research indicates that pregnant women consume fibre at lower levels than the recommended intake for the non-pregnant population (Anderson 1986, Derbyshire et al 2006). Low fluid intake has been linked to constipation in pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. This article provides information for health professionals about how much fibre and fluid should be consumed during pregnancy.