Pregnancy

Pregnancy and Diet

Your diet while pregnant is highly important to the health of your unborn child. Whatever you put into your body becomes the nourishment for your baby. Eating healthy should include a variety of fruits and vegetables. In addition, protein and iron are two major aspects of delivering a healthy child. Besides eating a well balanced diet your doctor will have you take a prenatal vitamin and possibly an iron supplement if this nutrient is lacking in your body. For vegetarian moms to be this may be a great option.

For some woman the cravings during pregnancy can provide them with empty calories and add extra, unwanted pounds. Fruit is a food craving that is not only good for you, but tastes great too. If you crave junk food, try to eat it in moderation. You can also substitute one food for another so that it is not all bad for you or your baby. If ice cream is what you want, try eating low fat frozen yogurt with fresh fruit on top for that sugary flavor. Even cheeses can be substituted so that you are not eating the one with the fattest. Opt for low fat or fat free versions of your favorite cheese. Some raw milk cheeses like brie and bleu cheese should be avoided during pregnancy. They may carry an illness called listeriosis because they have not been pasteurized.

When it comes to drinking fluids during pregnancy alcohol should be avoided. It can cause damaging effects on your unborn child. Caffeinated drinks should be drunk in moderation. One or two 8-ounce glasses can be consumed daily without the worry of having a miscarriage. Chocolate also contains caffeine so be advised of that when you are eating chocolate candies or bars. Some herbal teas should be avoided during pregnancy like raspberry and green teas. They may actually motivate contractions and start early labor. Ginger and mint teas will be better to drink for you and your baby to be.

Some food additives should be avoided during pregnancy. These include MSG, which is monosodium glutamate. This additive is popular in Asian cooking and may cause upset stomach and headaches. Saccharin should not be part of a pregnancy diet as it is considered unsafe. For those moms to be who still incorporate meat as a part of their diet all red meat should have the fat removed so that the chemicals are not a factor for your baby. Some fish also has to be avoided because of the high mercury content like shellfish and sushi. Use caution while pregnant when consuming food and maintain a well balanced diet with the necessary prenatal vitamins and/or supplements.