SINGAPORE - Many Singaporean women are not following a well-balanced eating plan to meet their nutritional needs during pregnancy.

This was the finding of a survey conducted by Abbott Nutrition with 480 women to determine the knowledge levels of pregnant mums and mums-to-be around nutrition during pregnancy and lactation.

While 76 per cent of pregnant women thought they consumed balanced and nutritious meals, a closer look showed they are not meeting the Health Promotion Board's (HPB's) nutrition guidelines during pregnancy.

Less than half of the pregnant women surveyed consumed at least two servings of fruit and vegetables daily, and only one out of every five pregnant women consumed at least two glasses of milk daily.

HPB recommends women to consume three servings of vegetables, two servings of fruit and two glasses of milk every day during pregnancy.

Most women surveyed said they find it difficult to eat healthy in Singapore. Half of the respondents felt that they do not have enough time to prepare healthy meals at home and 61 per cent felt there is a lack of healthy choices when dining out.

In addition to healthy eating, a whopping 83 per cent of women were worried about gaining excess weight during their pregnancies.

Dr Kelly Loi, Medical Director of the Health & Fertility Centre for Women, said: "While being pregnant does not mean having to eat for two, it is a matter of concern that many pregnant women do not appear to be meeting their nutritional needs."

"Eating well during pregnancy ensures optimal nourishment for the unborn baby. Pregnant women are advised to cut back on fat, salt and sugar and increase their intake of whole-grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and low-fat dairy products," she advised.

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