What to Eat While Pregnant

Once the excitement of being pregnant subsides, lots of questions come up.Now more than ever it is important to eat good foods for you and your baby.If you want to decrease the chances of complication during and after your pregnancy, then you need to eat the right foods. Learning what to eat during pregnancy has never been easier than it is now.

First, remember that once you hit the second trimester, good nutrition during pregnancy requires that you eat about 300 more calories a day.Getting enough calories without overdoing it is important, as both you and your baby need the energy.Just because you need extra calories does not mean you can take over at the buffet table.This is only 300 calories. A glass of milk or one banana equals 100 calories and a slice of whole wheat bread, and ounce of cheese and a half of cup of grapes equal 200 calories. See how much more you are eating than if you decide to eat a donut instead.

Remember that you need at least three servings of protein each day. Protein contains amino acid which is one of the most important building block for your baby’s tissue. Protein is very easy to come by and your options are endless.Try something like 3 glasses of milk, 2 cups of yogurt and 3 ounces of cheese.

Next, you need at least four servings of calcium every day.Think of your baby’s bones growing as you consume calcium, but don’t forget, you are protecting your bones too.Milk, cheese, yogurt and even ice cream are excellent ways to get the calcium you need.

Aim for at least three servings of vitamin C. Your body does not store vitamin C so you need a fresh supply of it every day.You have lots of choices for getting vitamin C, as there are lots of fruits and vegetables that have high levels of vitamin C. You also want to make sure you get three to four servings of green leafy and yellow vegetables and fruits.An added benefit is that these fruits and most vegetables will give you vitamin C.

One or two more servings of other fruits and vegetables will serve you well, giving you other nutrients and important fiber.You might consider bananas, apples and onions for foods in this category. Eat six or more servings of whole grains and legumes.In addition to having good amounts of fiber, these foods also are high in vitamins B and E. Try eating brown rice, whole wheat breads and even air popped corn to get your servings of whole grains and legumes in.

Be sure to get enough iron, as it is one of the most important nutrients for you and your developing baby. Your body’s demand for iron will never be greater than it is while you are pregnant.It is important not to ignore this.Not enough iron can cause anemia, so be sure you are getting enough.Your doctor can prescribe an iron supplement if you feel you are not getting enough in your diet.

A fit pregnancy gives your baby the best chance for healthy development. And while it is always a good idea to eat well every day, when you are pregnant it is essential that you eat well every day.

Source: good nutrition during pregnancy