Thought the 2nd Trimester Was a Breeze? Watch Out for These 3 "Hidden Traps" That Could change Your Sticker Color!

Entering the Second Trimester (Week 13-28), you’ve said goodbye to morning sickness and welcomed the comfortable "Golden Period." But don't get too complacent!

Many mums fall into "nutrition traps" during this stage because their appetite returns, leading to rapid weight gain or new physical discomforts. Today, let's talk about how to navigate this period healthily.

 Have you done the important 2nd Trimester checks?
Don't just focus on eating! Don't miss the golden timing for the crucial Detail Scan and MGTT (sugar test)!
Read: "2nd Trimester Guide: Detail Scan & MGTT Must-Dos"

Trap 1: Believing the "Eating for Two" Myth

This is the biggest pitfall! Many elders will urge you to eat more, but the truth is, you only need an extra ~300 calories per day in the 2nd trimester (that's about one slice of wholemeal bread + a glass of milk).

Trap 2: Waking Up with Leg Cramps

Many mums start experiencing painful leg cramps at night during this stage. This happens because baby's bones are growing rapidly, increasing the demand for Calcium. If your intake is insufficient, your body will protest.

Solution: Consume more milk, yogurt, and dark leafy greens. If diet isn't enough, consult your doctor or pharmacist about calcium supplements.

Trap 3: Anemia and Dizziness (Iron Deficiency)

As your blood volume increases, it's easy to develop iron deficiency anemia in the 2nd trimester. During KK blood tests, if your Hemoglobin (Hb) is below 11, you are considered anemic.

This causes fatigue, dizziness, and pale skin. Remember to eat more red meat, spinach, and take the Iron Tablets provided by KK regularly.