Page 57 - FoodFocusThailand No.234 September 2025

SPECIAL FOCUS

- Folic Acid: The recommended to aid wound healing. Vitamin C and zinc are also essential for the formation of
intake is 400–600 micrograms per new tissue. In the early recovery phase, patients should consume soft, easily
day, especially during the first three digestible foods.
months of pregnancy. Folic acid 5. Elderly with limited mobility require 20–30% less energy than usual but
should ideally be consumed from the still need adequate protein intake to prevent muscle loss. Other important nutrients
time pregnancy is planned. It can be for this group include calcium, vitamin D, and dietary fiber.
found in dark green leafy vegetables, Nutrition for individuals in special conditions involves adjusting dietary intake to
beans, whole grains, and animal meet the body’s needs at different life stages and under various physical conditions.
liver. Folic acid deficiency increases This ensures adequate energy and nutrient intake for growth, proper functioning,
the risk of neural tube defects, which and recovery, thereby promoting good health, preventing complications, and
may manifest as a fluid-filled sac or supporting a strong and sustainable quality of life.
an opening along the spinal cord
(Spina Bifida), leading to permanent
disability. In severe cases, it can More Information Service Info C006
cause the baby to be born without
a skull and brain (Anencephaly).
- Iodine: It supports fetal brain
and nervous system development
and prevents goiter. Deficiency
increases the risks of miscarriage
and maternal death.
- Iron: It is an essential mineral
during pregnancy. Pregnant women
need an additional 30 milligrams
of iron per day to produce red
blood cells, prevent anemia, and
compensate for blood loss during
delivery. Iron deficiency can result in
low blood volume, insufficient blood
supply during pregnancy, and may
increase the risk of premature birth.
In addition, other essential
nutrients include omega-3, calcium,
and vitamin C. At the same time,
pregnant women should reduce
the intake of foods that are overly
sweet, fatty, or salty, focus on
eating clean, and control their diet to
prevent chronic non-communicable
diseases.
2. Breastfeeding women
require an additional 500 kilocalories
per day above their normal needs.
Key nutrients include protein and
good fats such as marine fish,
eggs, and legumes. They also need
more calcium, iron, and iodine. In
addition, drinking 2–3 liters of water
per day helps support breast milk
production.
3. Individuals who work hard
or exercise intensely require
increased energy according to
their workload, about 2,800–3,500
kilocalories per day. Important
nutrients for this group include
complex carbohydrates as the main
source of energy, protein for muscle
repair, as well as B vitamins and
minerals.
4. Patients recovering from
surgery or illness require energy
adjusted to meet their recovery
needs. The key nutrient is protein,
which is needed in high amounts
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