WHAT EVERY PREGNANT WOMAN SHOULD KNOW: The Truth About Diets and Drugs in Pregnancy

by ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 10, 1977

A vigorous argument against low-salt diets and restricted weight gain policies, from a childbirth education teacher and the obstetrician president of the Society for the Protection of the Unborn through Nutrition. Contending that doctors never study nutrition, they attribute the increase in underweight US newborns (and concomitant childhood problems) to malnutrition--among poor women and the privately tended who abide by recommended pound limits. They object that diuretics are dispensed too freely for toxemic symptoms regardless of came, maintaining that some swelling is healthful. What's eaten is more important than the number of pounds gained, they insist, and salt is especially vital during pregnancy--it facilitates placental perfusion. Their alternative for all--no individual considerations for normal body weight, metabolism, or medical condition--is a daily 2600 calorie diet (more for twins) which includes 100 grams of protein, a quart of milk (or equivalent dairy products), two eggs, and all essential nutrients. They also provide sample menus for two weeks plus recipes and food lists indicating protein counts--fully half the book. Of course there's no endorsement of smoking or junk foods; surprisingly, the ""Drugs"" of the subtitle refers primarily to those diuretics, not under- or over-the-counter medications. (For a more thorough examination of their effects, see Gots, below) Strong-armed support for those who hunger through those last months, but expect the ob/gyn confederacy to table the eat-hearty injunction.

Pub Date: Oct. 10, 1977

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: -

Publisher: Random House

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Oct. 1, 1977

Categories: NONFICTION