If you're pregnant, or you're breastfeeding, what you eat plays a role in your infant's health and development, according to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Although a mother's body provides nutrients for her child both before birth and through breast milk, the AJCN reports that a baby is not protected from an inadequate maternal diet. A balanced diet and a doctor-recommended supplementation may be beneficial for your health and for your infant's development.
Diet during Pregnancy
Focus on eating a wide variety of healthy foods while you're pregnant, recommends MayoClinic.com. The basic principles of eating healthily apply most especially to expecting and new mothers. Eat plenty of fresh fruits, whole grain breads and cereal products, vegetables and lean sources of protein daily. MyPyramid, the USDA's nutritional guideline program, advises pregnant mothers to see a doctor about their changing nutritional needs during their pregnancies. MyPyramid offers an interactive maternal diet plan that can be customized based on age, weight, height and due date.
Supplementing Nutrients
If your diet does not supply all of the nutrients your infant needs, your doctor may prescribe a vitamin and mineral supplement. Some nutrients are more important than others during pregnancy and breastfeeding, according to AJCN. Scientific research indicates that iodine, choline, folate and DHA are essential for healthy infant development.
Breastfeeding Diet
If you're eating a balanced diet and taking a supplement, your baby is probably getting adequate nutrition, but there are some foods you may want to avoid while you're breastfeeding. According to the KidsHealth website, some foods may trigger fussiness or gassiness in breastfed infants. Limit or eliminate beans, broccoli, cauliflower and spicy foods if you suspect that they bother your baby.
Fad Diets and Breastfeeding
After your baby is born, you may want to quickly regain your pre-pregnancy weight and figure, but it's important to get lots of nutrition if you're breastfeeding your baby, according to Drugs.com. You'll probably lose a few pounds just by eating a balanced diet. Avoid fad diets and crash diets that can stress your body and reduce your milk flow. A weight loss of up to five pounds per month is healthy.
Considerations
Limit caffeinated drinks, and avoid smoking and drinking alcohol while you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Don't take any medications, even over-the-counter remedies, without first talking to your doctor. In addition, avoid eating fish and seafood products that may be high in mercury during your pregnancy and while you're breastfeeding, advises KidsHealth.
References
- "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition"; Is Maternal Diet Supplementation Beneficial?; Steven H. Zeisel; February 2009
- MayoClinic.com: Pregnancy Diet: Essential Nutrients When You're Eating for Two
- United States Department of Agriculture: MyPyramid for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
- KidsHealth: Breastfeeding FAQs: Your Eating and Drinking Habits
- Drugs.com: Breastfeeding and Your Diet
