Sep 1, 2011

Eating A Nutritious Diet During Pregnancy

By Richard Bucket


We all know how difficult pregnancy can be (some more than others), so here is my advice. Figure out a healthier eating plan before you get pregnant. Changing the way you eat isn't an easy change, it takes time and it can be frustrating. It is best to have your healthy eating plan figured out before you get pregnant so when the time comes, you don't have to make a huge amount of changes, which may only add stress.

If you happen to have a difficult time eating a balanced diet during your first trimester, you are not the only one. Your eating may be sporadic due to periods of nausea. Some will be able to eat regularly and be able to gain much weight, while others may have a hard time keeping their food down and as a result, lose weight.

It is important during your first trimester should be to prevent malnutrition. Babies need nutrients, so you want to eat nutrient rich foods and drink plenty of water, to avoid dehydration.

When you have a baby growing inside of you, you'll need to eat for yourself, and your baby. Daily you will need to consume around 300 calories more than what you usually eat, so make sure to eat when you are hungry, and really listen to your body. Now it is as important as ever to eat raw fruits and vegetables daily, with vegetables being consumed in greater quantities. Fruits and vegetables are essential for good health, and they are prime sources of nutrients.

Calcium is a mineral that many agree is especially important during pregnancy. During the second trimester it is important to get around 1,500 milligrams of calcium every day for both you and your baby. Ideal, easy to digest and absorb sources of calcium include; sesame seeds, almonds, chia seeds, flax, and dark leafy greens such as kale and spinach. There are also many calcium supplements available if you are worried about not getting enough in your diet.

Everyone could benefit from eating a diet consisting largely of vegetables and fruits, especially pregnant women. Constipation is often an issue among expecting mothers. Fiber is essential if you want to have regular bowel movements (should have at least 1 movement per day). There are many vegetables and fruits that will provide you with essential nutrients, and the fiber needed maintain a healthy digestive system.

A diet low in protein isn't often a problem found in those eating a balanced diet. It may be a problem if you aren't making an effort to include protein sources into your diet. Protein is abundant in nuts, seeds and legumes.

Iron supplements aren't a very good idea during pregnancy. This is because symptoms such as cramping, diarrhea, and constipation can develop. As always, the best place to get vitamins and minerals such as iron, is whole, organic, raw foods. Different varieties of seaweeds, dark leafy greens, potatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, sesame seeds, as well as other types of nuts and seeds, all contain iron.

Vitamin supplements may be needed if you aren't eating a balanced diet, but it is always best to get vitamins from whole foods rather than supplements. You may want to get the advice of a doctor if you are worried about not getting all the vitamins and minerals you and your baby needs.




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