twins feet

Eating for three?

So you’ve just found out you’re having twins, triplets or more! When you’re given the news that you’re expecting multiples you might feel excited, shocked, frightened, overwhelmed or a combination of all of the above. 

A multiple pregnancy is a higher risk than a singleton one. You are more likely to

• Get nausea and vomiting  earlier in pregnancy and to a greater severity

• Be more tired

• Gain more weight

• Develop anaemia

• Develop gestational diabetes

• Get high blood pressure and preeclampsia

• Give birth before 37 weeks

• Have babies small for gestational age

An individually tailored healthy diet is considered essential as soon as you find out you’re having multiples. Your need for individual dietary advice is vital as your requirements are different to a woman carrying a singleton.  Carrying two babies doesn’t mean eating for 3 but you will need extra kilojoules or calories to ensure a healthy weight gain to meet the needs of your growing babies. You will have higher requirements of protein and carbohydrates. Other important nutrients for a multiples pregnancy include

• Folate

• Iron

• Calcium

• B12 

• Iodine

• Vitamin D 

• Omega 3 fatty acids

When you’re pregnant with twins or more you need to feel confident that your dietitian understands your unique requirements and can customise your pregnancy diet accordingly. I have a particular expertise in supporting women pregnant with multiples and have been involved in training other dietitians from around the world on this specific topic. My extensive experience and knowledge about nutrition for a multiple pregnancy and my easy going personality will help put you at ease during what can be a stressful time. You’ll have the peace of mind knowing you’re doing everything you can to have healthy babies. 

Get help now and make an appointment. Online consultations are available so you don’t need to leave the comfort of your home.