( 25 MAR 2017 )

The prominent source of your baby’s nourishment is the diet you follow during your pregnancy. Hence, it is important to choose a diet full of healthy food and beverages so as to provide primary nutrients that a baby demands for a proper development and growth. Nutrition to consume during pregnancy According to American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, a pregnant woman should consume more calcium, iron, folic acid, and protein.

Calcium: It is a mineral that is necessary to build bones and teeth the baby. If the diet lacks the adequate amount of calcium, then it will be drawn from the bones of the mother and will be provided to the baby. Moreover, the pregnant ladies should also intake dairy products rich in vitamin D, which is also an important mineral to build the bones and teeth of the baby.

Iron: Pregnant women should consume double amount of iron as compared to the ordinary women. Iron is needed to produce more blood so as to provide a proper amount of oxygen to the baby. If there is a deficiency of iron in the diet, then it can cause anemia, which in turn can result in an increase of infections.

Folic Acid: Folic acid is also known as Vitamin B, which helps in the prevention of congenital disabilities in the brain and the spine of the baby. The food rich in folic acid are leafy green vegetables, enriched cereals, pasta, bread, etc.

Protein: Protein is one of the essential nutrients for the baby. This nutrient helps in building organs in a child, like heart and the brain. You can add eggs, nuts, tofu, fish, meat, peas, and dried beans in your diet.

Foods to Eat The aim of a pregnant woman should be to eat a diet full of nutrition. So, more emphasis should be given on fruits, lean protein, vegetables, dairy products, and whole grains.

• Fruits & Vegetables:
The fruits and vegetables should be low in calories and rich in fiber, minerals, and vitamins.

• Lean Proteins:
It can include meat, fish, egg, tofu, milk, cheese, nuts, and beans.

• Dairy Products:
You can consume milk, cheese, and yoghurt in dairy products.

• Whole Grains:
Oatmeal, brown rice, pasta, and bread should be consumed by pregnant women.

Food to Avoid:
The food items that the pregnant women should avoid or cut down the intake of are caffeine, such as tea and coffee & fish. So, this can be the proper diet for a pregnant woman. Eat healthily and stay healthy!