Maternal nutrition for clients in the private sector

Once the dietitian gains a foothold, she can then go through the process of assuming responsibility for marketing and promotion and expansion of nutrition services. Reaching out into the private sector offers the nutritionist an opportunity to provide maternal nutrition education. Everyone benefits--the mother, fetus, family, and obstetrician. We must begin nutrition education somewhere. Motivation is a prerequisite in learning to effect a change in habits. Women who are pregnant are motivated to provide the health care needed for themselves and for the development and growth of the fetus. Therefore, women who receive prenatal care are excellent candidates. The first trimester is a good time to start. The program also provides an opportunity to involve the family as an effective instrument for the delivery of nutrition services to children.