Answer:

Many believe that a twin pregnancy means eating "for three" to ensure healthy fetal development. However, this is a common misunderstanding. Mothers expecting twins do not need to triple their food intake but should focus on consuming sufficient and nutrient-dense foods. Especially during the Tet holiday, pregnant women need to control their portions when eating dishes rich in starches and fats, such as banh chung, banh tet, sticky rice, gio cha (Vietnamese sausage), various meats, and fried foods.

During a twin pregnancy, placental hormone levels are higher than in singleton pregnancies, increasing the risk of insulin resistance after 24 weeks. If an expectant mother consumes too much energy, particularly from starches, sugars, and fats, her body may struggle to process it. This can lead to gestational diabetes and other complications, including premature birth and preeclampsia. It can also result in an abnormally large fetus, impacting health and daily life.

A twin pregnancy causes the uterus to expand rapidly, compressing the stomach and intestines. Consequently, eating too much can easily lead to reflux, heartburn, shortness of breath, bloating, and constipation. Excessive weight gain also slows postpartum recovery and increases the risk of postpartum depression.

Fetal nutrition is measured by micronutrient content, not by the sheer volume of food consumed. If a mother eats too many high-energy, low-micronutrient foods, she may gain weight easily, but her babies will not receive essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, folic acid, and DHA.

Doctor Nguyen Hoang Long provides dietary advice and notes for pregnant women during the Tet holiday. Illustration: Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic

Expectant mothers need to supplement all necessary nutrient groups, including protein, folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and other minerals. Eat a diverse range of nutrient-rich foods such as fish, meat, eggs, green vegetables, fruits, grains, milk, and various nuts. Ensure food safety and hygiene by eating cooked food and drinking boiled water. Avoid foods that may cause digestive disorders or infections, leading to vomiting, fever, or diarrhea.

Mothers should avoid overeating in one sitting and instead divide their meals into five small portions throughout the day. Apply the "one bite" rule: only try a small amount of each dish to satisfy your taste buds without overfilling your stomach, which can cause reflux and reduce the risk of constipation.

Mothers should drink 2-3 liters of water daily. Maintain an adequate rest regimen and exercise for 30 minutes each day, such as walking, yoga, or specific pregnancy exercises. This helps strengthen bones, joints, and ligaments and effectively controls blood sugar levels, especially after 24 weeks. Manage weight with a target gain of approximately 12-16 kg if your BMI is normal, ensuring the health of both the mother and the twins.

Doctor Nguyen Hoang Long

Specialist in Fetal Medicine

Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic