Pregnant DIet/Weight/Nutrients

Diet For Pregnant women

Pregnant women do not require a special diet but it is essential to follow a balanced, healthy diet that will provide the energy you and your baby need.  A nutritious diet is important for the baby's proper physical and mental development.  Pregnancy brings many physical changes, and a balanced diet will ensure that you get the nutrients you need to bring a strong and healthy baby into the world when the time comes.  There are many healthy recipes for pregnant women that are nutritious and appetizing as well.

Nutrients for Pregnant Women

Staying healthy is a must for every pregnant woman.  When you're pregnant, you need certain essential nutrients such as calcium, folate, iron, vitamins, minerals and fiber.  During the first trimester or initial three months of pregnancy, your diet should be high in folic acid, calcium and iron.  Healthy recipes for pregnant women during the first trimester should include spinach, beans, lentils, chicken and beef liver, broccoli, whole grains, cheese, milk, dried fruits, leafy greens and seafood.  Folate is important to prevent neural tube defects in the baby.  Stay away from the fried stuff and heavy fat contents.  Omega 3s and fish oil supplements are good, but moderate them as per doctor instructions.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Pregnant women should stay healthy without putting on too much weight.  Excess weight during pregnancy can lead to health issues for you and the baby.  The healthy recipes you choose should provide adequate nutrition without excess calories.  Here are some tips for healthy eating:

• Eat fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.  They add bulk and help prevent constipation, which is common is pregnant women.
• Eat plenty of leafy greens such as kale and spinach.  They provide iron and folate needed by the growing fetus.
• Include avocados, flax seed and other sources of monounsaturated fatty acids in your diet. These healthy fats are essential for your baby's development.

All that being said, hang in there.  There will come a time when the heartburn from fetus position or his/her full head of hair stops pushing on your digestive tract, and you can get back to eating for your self.  These next 5-7 months will be crucial for the new child's nutrition if breastfeeding and for yourself getting back to a high vitamin content.