Mrs. Anupama S. Medhekar

Pregnancy is a very cherished state of every woman's life. It is also an important event of both husband and wife. For good health of mother and baby, it is essential to take care of the pregnant woman. Ante-natal care includes specific diets, daily routine exercise, investigations and medical treatment if required. One of the important points among ante-natal care is diet. Especially in Indian culture, diet in pregnancy and post-natal condition is an important issue. Many specific recipes, preparations are suggested in different parts of the country.

Ayurveda is ancient Indian medical science. So it is very close to our traditions and social aspects. In Ayurveda detailed information is given about diet in pregnancy. Specific preparations are prescribed relating to the month of pregnancy, desire of pregnant woman and also for having desired sex of the child. While prescribing the diet Ayurveda thinks not only about the baby, but also about mind and soul. As Ayurveda believes that prevention is better than cure, so some dietetic preparations to prevent the common problems of pregnancy are also given.

It is really interesting to see all the information available regarding diet in pregnancy, in Ayurveda, traditions and also in modern medicine. To analyse them according to easy availability, cost effectiveness, suitability for mother and baby is an important and demanding task. Attempt will be made to discuss the philosophy of dietetics according to Ayurveda and traditions in respect of pregnancy and compare it with modern views.