Dec 31 2008
Follow These Rules for Healthy Eating When You Are Pregnant
You found out you are pregnant.Eating the right foods is more important than ever now that you are pregnant.Eat right and you are doing a lot to minimize your risk of pregnancy complications. 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.Be sure you get enough calories, as you and your baby need the energy.Sure you are going to need extra calories, but this is not a license to eat anything you want.You will only be getting 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.
Your baby will be better off if you eat at least 3 servings of protein every day.Build your baby to be the best possible by getting enough protein every day. Protein is very easy to come by and your options are endless. You can drink 3 glasses of milk, and you can have 2 cups of yogurt along with 3 ounces of cheese.
Four daily servings of calcium are also important for you and your baby.In addition to supplying your baby with the calcium needed for bone growth, you are also protecting your bones.There are lots of tasty foods that supply calcium, such as milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream.
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.There are lots of fruits and vegetables that contain vitamin C. You also want to make sure you get three to four servings of green leafy and yellow vegetables and fruits. Most of these veggies and fruits will also count toward your vitamin C intake, so that is double the benefit.
One or two more servings of other fruits and vegetables will serve you well, giving you other nutrients and important fiber.Some examples in this category are banana, apples, and onions.You need to get 6 or more servings of grains and legumes daily.These foods are loaded with vitamins B and E, and they can also have fiber that can keep you regular. Try eating brown rice, whole wheat breads and even air popped corn to get your servings of whole grains and legumes in.
Iron is without a doubt one of the most important nutrients you need when you are pregnant.You will need to get more iron than ever when you are pregnant.It is important to maintain this.Not enough iron can cause anemia, so be sure you are getting enough.If you have any concerns, ask your doctor about getting an iron supplement.
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.
