Your pregnancy diet must support not only your own nutrition, but also that of your developing baby. Your daily requirement of many nutrients, including protein, calcium, folate, iron and zinc, are elevated during pregnancy. Adding a food supplement, such as whey protein, to your nutritional plan may help you get the nutrients you need for optimal pregnancy health. However, overuse of a protein supplement may cause you to gain too much weight, putting you at risk of developing gestational diabetes. Before adding any supplements to your diet, consult with your health-care practitioner.
Whey Protein Powder
Whey is a quality milk protein, meaning it contains an optimal amino acid profile to meet your body's protein needs. In fact, your body absorbs and incorporates whey proteins more efficiently than any other food protein, according to the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center. Whey protein powders, available as concentrates, isolates and hydrolysates, are often used by athletes, dieters and others who want to increase their daily intake of protein. Because whey protein powder is a high-quality protein, you may choose to add it to your pregnancy diet.
Advantages
The boost in essential amino acids that your baby will get is the primary benefit of adding whey protein powder to your pregnancy diet. You need those essential amino acids, as well, because your body requires extra protein to support your growing uterus and breasts and to increase your volume of blood. Whey protein powder is a convenient way to get your protein, because you can easily take the powder with you to work or school and make a shake whenever you need one. Whey protein powder concentrate also has carbohydrates in the form of lactose, a sugar your body burns for energy.
Disadvantages
Despite the convenience of whey protein powders, consuming whole-food protein provides your pregnant body with essential nutrients that whey protein powders may lack. For example, low-fat milk supplies you with calcium, vitamin A and vitamin D, in addition to protein. A serving of lean beef provides necessary iron. If you are lactose intolerant, whey protein powder concentrate may aggravate your digestive system, although you may substitute whey protein isolate or hydrolysate powders, as they contain little to no lactose. Additionally, whey protein powders may cost more than whole foods that supply an equivalent amount of protein.
Other Considerations
The Food and Drug Administration does not regulate any dietary supplements, including whey protein powder. Therefore, what you see on the label may not correspond to the product in the container. Because of the importance of eating healthy nutrients and avoiding toxins during pregnancy, select whey protein powder from a reputable source. To avoid getting too many calories, restrict high-calorie foods with little nutritional value.
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