Healthy Food During Pregnancy
2 mins read

Healthy Food During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, most women need to gain about 25 lbs. to ensure their babies’ health and development, according to the March of Dimes. Eating healthy calories is important even for moms who needed to lose weight before conception. However, sometimes misconceptions arise about what is or isn’t healthy food to eat while expecting a baby. Learning the facts about healthy food and drinks is essential.

Misconceptions

The phrase “eat for two” is common when people discuss pregnancy and food, according to the Women’s Health website. However, eating twice as much as normal is not a good idea for any expectant mom and can lead to a number of potential health problems. Also, gaining too much weight during pregnancy makes it that much harder to take off after delivery.

Warnings

Even if you are overweight, do not under any circumstances diet during pregnancy, according to the Women’s Health website. If your body starts producing too many ketones because you’re losing weight, your baby could end up mentally challenged. Also, you cannot safely drink alcohol while pregnant or eat raw or undercooked food, according to the March of Dimes. Avoid high-mercury fish, such as swordfish or tilefish. Stay away from soft cheeses, such as Brie.

Types of Healthy Calories

Generally, eating about 300 extra calories a day is a good idea, according to the Women’s Health website. Focus more on healthy food and drinks rather than junk food; not eating the appropriate amount of nutrients can lead to birth defects in your baby. Eating seven servings of fruits and vegetables a day is essential during pregnancy. Other good choices include low-fat dairy products, lean protein and whole-grain cereal and bread.

Liquid Options

Some days you may not feel well but still need extra calories, according to the March of Dimes. You can stay hydrated while meeting you and your growing baby’s nutritional needs by drinking fruit and vegetable juices or low-fat milk. Drinking plenty of water is also important, especially if you suffer from morning sickness. Limit your amount of regular and diet soda. Carbonation can upset stomachs. Regular soda is filled with “empty” calories that do not help your baby’s development.

Meal Time Frames

Eating six to eight meals a day while pregnant is a great way to keep you and your future son healthy, according to the Women’s Health website. Eating three large meals may not sit well with your changing body. Eating regularly may also curb nausea and potential morning sickness, according to the March of Dimes.

Photo Credit

  • pregnancy expectation image by forca from Fotolia.com
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