Healthy Eating During Pregnancy

Eating well is one of the best ways to keep your body strong and healthy. When your pregnant, your body’s (and baby’s) need for nutrients is greatly increased, often increasing your food intake as well. That’s why it’s easy for many women to overeat during pregnancy, resulting in excessive weight gain.

Now let’s get one thing straight - you’re going to gain weight while pregnant. That’s actually a good thing! Gaining weight during pregnancy is healthy for you and your baby. Excessive weight gain that stems from overeating unhealthy food, however, is not healthy. That’s why we’ve put together this list of tips for how you can maintain healthy eating habits during your pregnancy:

Don’t Skip Breakfast

There’s a reason it’s the most important meal of the day! Breakfast not only gets your body going and boosts your energy levels, it can help curb feelings of morning sickness and give you an extra dose of nutrients. Cereal and fruit are great options, but if your stomach is a bit on edge, try some plain whole-wheat toast. 

Make Fiber Your New Best Friend

Fiber plays a big role in your health during pregnancy. It helps keep your blood pressure under control and reduces the risk of constipation. According to the American Pregnancy Association, you should aim for an intake of 25-30 grams of fiber each day. Drinking lots of water will also help  move the fiber through your system. Fiber-rich foods include fruits and vegetables, as well as beans, whole grains, and oatmeal. 

Choose Healthy Snacks

Pregnancy cravings are a very real thing, so it’s important to toss the potato chips and stock up on the healthy snacks for when they come. Yogurt, fruit, crackers, and low-fat cheese are some great options. As with anything, moderation is key when it comes to cravings. You can learn more about how to deal with pregnancy cravings here.

Remember Your Food Groups

It’s important to be eating a variety of foods throughout the day to ensure you and your baby are getting the proper amount nutrients you both need. Fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy, and especially protein. Keep in mind the food groups as you prepare your meals and make sure you’re getting enough intake of each one. 

Take Prenatal Vitamins

Food should be your primary source of vitamins and nutrients, however it’s still a good idea to be taking prenatal vitamins during pregnancy. A daily vitamin can help fill in the small gaps of much needed nutrients for you and your baby. You can learn more about prenatal vitamins here, or by consulting with your doctor. 

Pregnancy is an exciting time, and it’s important to make sure you and your baby are staying healthy. By sticking to healthy foods that supplement your body with plenty of vitamins and nutrients, you’ll be able to keep your body strong. For any questions regarding diet and nutrition while pregnant, consult with your doctor or give us a call.