Fasting during the first trimester of pregnancy, is it safe?

Fasting during pregnancy is usually fine. But what about early pregnancy or if the pregnancy is still in the first trimester?

According to research conducted by Colombia University based on censuses in the US, Iraq and Uganda, it was found that fasting pregnant women tended to have smaller babies or were born under normal weight. These little babies are also prone to learning difficulties when they are older. So, is fasting during the first trimester of pregnancy recommended from a medical perspective? This is the answer.

Pregnant women need nutrition early in pregnancy

Researchers from Columbia University found that babies born under normal weight were most seen when pregnant women fasted earlier in their pregnancy and they fasted during the summer when the light days were longer. That means fasting lasts longer in the summer. This is very dangerous to the health of the fetus.

How about in Indonesia? Even though it does not have a hot season and fasting times are shorter than Middle Eastern countries, is fasting during the first trimester of pregnancy safe to do?

In the first trimester of pregnancy (1-13 weeks), generally pregnant women still face a series of pregnancy complaints that are normal in these first months. Among them are nausea, vomiting, weakness, dizziness, and the body of pregnant women is still adapting to the hormonal changes that are happening.

Excessive nausea and vomiting in the early trimester can cause dehydration in pregnant women. Whereas the fetus can cause a lack of incoming nutrition. In fact, adequate nutrition is needed by the fetus at the beginning of the period of formation, growth and completion of its organs.

Actually there is no special taboo for fasting for pregnant women, even though pregnant women are not obliged to fast and may change it if they feel unable or worried that something will happen to their baby (you can ask someone who is more expert in religion).

Before fasting during pregnancy, consult your obstetrician first

However, of course this situation is different for each pregnant woman, this needs to be confirmed based on the results of the examination. We recommend that before deciding to fast, you should first check with your obstetrician about your condition and the fetus and ask if you can fast?

Some sources state that fasting is safest done at 4-7 months of gestation. It is feared that less than 4 months are still prone to miscarriage, while more than 7 months you usually feel tired and need more food intake.

Lack of fluids or dehydration can cause contractions, therefore if a pregnant woman is fasting and then contractions or other complaints occur, you should consider stopping fasting immediately and going to the doctor for help.

In conclusion, have your womb checked by a gynecologist, and ask your gynecologist whether you are allowed to fast or not. The obstetrician will provide advice according to the condition of the pregnant woman and the fetus. If fasting is allowed, pay attention to nutritional intake so that you stay healthy and the fetus can develop properly.

Tips for safe fasting during the first trimester of pregnancy

• Pay attention to the adequacy of the nutrients consumed. Even though fasting, the nutritional intake that pregnant women should get is 50% carbohydrates, 25% protein, 10-15% healthy fats, don't forget the intake of vitamins and minerals.
• Watch your weight gain before and while fasting. Weight loss likely increases the risk to the fetus. Maintain your weight and consult your doctor on schedule.
• Check your pregnancy to find out that your fetus can adapt to nutritional intake in the fasting month. As long as you are fasting, it does not mean that your fetus is fasting. It is very important for you to pay attention to the intake throughout the day at dawn and iftar.
• The right menu choices when breaking the fast or dawn so it is beneficial for fetal development such as dates, spinach, salmon, broccoli, kale, and chicken.
• Manage your rest well so that it doesn't cause stress and interfere with your health.
• Do not continue fasting if your condition shows unfavorable conditions such as nausea, dizziness, excessive weakness and others.