Keys to Having a Nutritious and Happy Pregnancy
Read on to find out what foods are needed during this happy time for you and your baby’s best nutrition.
There are some choices that are not healthy for you or your baby.
Caffeine - There is no real evidence that supports caffeine causing problems in pregnancy, but it is a stimulant and can get into your baby’s system through you. If you have to have caffeine make sure to limit your intake to two cups a day, no more than that.
Smoking - Everyone knows that smoking is harmful to you before pregnancy, but it especially harmful during pregnancy. Smoking while you are pregnant can cause premature birth, low birth weight among other more serious complications.
Medications and /or Drugs - Always ask your physician before taking any prescription or over the counter medications. Some side affects could be severe while you are pregnant.
Alcohol - Do not drink alcohol during your pregnancy. Results show higher rates of miscarriage, birth defects and complications with pregnancy when the mother drinks while pregnant.
This is the most important time for you to make healthy, nutritious choices in your diet. You have more nutritional demands being made on your body. You’ll need extra nutrients for your growing baby and too keep you healthy and happy too.
Calcium helps the baby’s teeth and bones develop. If you don’t eat enough in your diet, your baby will start taking the calcium from your bones. You could run the risk of developing osteoporosis later on in life. Dairy products, milk, cheese and yogurt are great sources of Calcium. Salmon with bones in it and green leafy vegetables are also good choices. Orange juice is now made to include more calcium. There are a lot of options for getting enough calcium throughout the day.
Your body and your growing baby will also need protein. A total of about 60 grams a day is best . This can come from lean cuts of meat, chicken, fish, dried beans, eggs, nuts or cheese.
Expectant moms need more iron also, due to the blood volume that increases throughout your pregnancy. You’ll need about 15-30 mg a day. Red meat, whol grain cereals, eggs and green leafy vegetables are great sources of iron. Your obstetrician may recommend iron supplements in the last 6 months during your pregnancy.
Last but not least, water is always important to you and your baby’s health. Drink about 8-12 cups a day. It can come from fruit juices, water or milk. These will help you get the maximum daily requirements.
Now your on your way to a healthy, nutritious pregnancy and welcoming a wonderful bundle of joy into your life.
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