28th week

Embracing the Journey

Hello, dear Mommies! Time seems to be flying by, doesn’t it? Welcome to the 28th week of your remarkable pregnancy journey. How’s everything going for all of you? It’s almost surreal to think about how many weeks have passed. It’s like we’re living in a dream, isn’t it? Well, dreams are beautiful because they allow us to catch a glimpse of the faces we’ve been imagining for so long.

Now, let’s dive into the magical world of your baby’s development. Our little one is growing steadily, measuring around 36 cm to 37 cm from head to toe, resembling a plump eggplant. That tiny brain is working tirelessly and has tripled in weight. The cerebrum is forming convoluted grooves, providing extra surface area without taking up more space in the skull

By this week, your baby’s sense organs are fully functional, allowing your cutie to hear, touch and smell. Sometimes, the baby might even playfully stick out its tongue. Our little one is preparing for birth by changing positions, slowly settling into the ideal head-down position. However, some babies might still be in the breech position, with their heads up. You’ll notice rapid eye movements in your baby, suggesting that they can dream too. The autonomic nervous system is taking on a new role, controlling the body temperature.

Now, let’s address some common symptoms you might be experiencing during this 28th week:

Recipe for the 28th week: Pumpkin Palak Curry

INGREDIENTS

Pumpkin – 100 gms (peeled and cubed)
Palak – 1 cup ( chopped)
Grated coconut – 2 tsp
Dry red chilli – 2-3 nos
Garlic – 2 cloves
Ginger – 1 inch
Cumin seed – 1/4 tsp
Oil – 2 tsp
Salt – to taste

METHOD

1.Heat 1 tsp oil in a pan, fry dry red chilli, ginger, garlic and coconut until fragrant.

2.Grind them into a smooth paste.

3.In a kadai, heat oil, add cumin seeds; when they pop, add pumpkin and spinach.

4.Stir-fry, add salt and pour ½ cup water. Cover and cook until the veggies are tender.

5.Add the ground paste and some water if needed.

6.Simmer for 2-3 minutes.

7.Serve hot. Enjoy!

NUTRITIONAL VALUE

Pumpkin – vitamin A 37% DV, copper 28% DV, protein 3 gms
Palak – 2.9 gms protein, 2.7 mg iron

NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS

Pumpkin spinach curry can offer several nutritional benefits during pregnancy:

Folate: Spinach is a good source of folate (vitamin B9), which is crucial for preventing neural tube defects in the developing foetus.

Iron: Spinach contains iron, which is important for preventing iron-deficiency anaemia during pregnancy and supporting healthy blood production.

Vitamins and minerals: Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for foetal development and immune support. It also contains minerals like potassium and magnesium.

Fibre: Both pumpkin and spinach are high in dietary fibre, aiding digestion and preventing constipation, a common discomfort during pregnancy.

Low in calories: This curry is typically low in calories, making it a nutritious option for those looking to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy.

Hydration support: Maintaining proper hydration during pregnancy is crucial, as blood volume increases to meet the demands of the developing foetus. Pumpkin’s high water content aids in hydration, helping to maintain fluid balance in the body.

Protein: Spinach provides some plant-based protein, important for tissue growth and repair.

Healthy fats: Depending on the preparation, this curry may include healthy fats like coconut oil, which can provide sustained energy.

Flavour and variety: Pumpkin and spinach add flavour, texture and variety to your diet, helping you meet your nutritional needs while enjoying your meals.

Reduced risk of gestational diabetes: A diet rich in vegetables, like pumpkin and spinach, has been associated with a lower risk of developing gestational diabetes.

Customizable: You can customise this curry with herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences and nutritional needs.

As with any dietary choices during pregnancy, it’s important to ensure that your overall diet is balanced and meets your individual nutritional needs. Consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalised dietary guidance during pregnancy, especially if you have specific dietary considerations or restrictions.

Wishing you a joyous and healthy pregnancy journey!

Always only speak to a health care service provider for all pregnancy related queries and diet recommendations.