Many children around the world are born with disabilities. The number of such children is approximately 2.5 lakh who die within 28 days of birth. Apart from this, approximately 1 lakh 70 thousand disabled children survive from the age of 1 month to 5 years. Disability can occur due to many reasons – some are beyond our control, but there are some that we can prevent. But by keeping some things in mind, the risk of the child becoming disabled can be reduced. Let us know what things should be kept in mind…
Nutritious diet
During pregnancy, a balanced and nutritious diet is very important for both mother and child. Every day, try to ensure that your food is rich in nutrients – like pulses, green vegetables, fruits, sprouted grains, nuts and seeds, milk and curd. All these provide important nutrients like protein, calcium, iron, folic acid, vitamins to your body. Which are very necessary for the proper development and growth of the child.
Make sure to get these tests done
During pregnancy, some important screening tests are done keeping in mind the safety and health of the fetus. Among these, double marker test and triple marker test are the most important tests. These tests help in detecting any genetic abnormality or disorder in the fetus. Double marker test is done between 11th and 13th week of pregnancy. This test is helpful in identifying genetic diseases like Down syndrome. Triple marker test is done from 16th to 18th week and it proves helpful in detecting other genetic disorders including Down syndrome. With this, any kind of disability of the unborn baby can be detected.
Make sure to take supplements
The most important medicines during pregnancy include folic acid, iron and calcium supplements and vitamins etc. Folic acid helps in the development of the child’s brain and spinal cord. Iron and calcium are essential for the bones of the child and the mother. Vitamins are also important for the mother and child to remain healthy.
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