Pregnant women need increased calories, nutrients and minerals during all phases of pregnancy, in addition to prenatal vitamins. While many women simply eat enhanced versions of their normal diets during their pregnancies, there are a variety of specific diet ideas available to pregnant women to maximize their health.
Bradley Method Pregnancy Diet
The Bradley Method Pregnancy Diet is one diet idea pregnant women may consider. The Bradley Method, a system of childbirth classes, focuses on natural childbirth as a way of ensuring the healthiest baby possible. The diet recommends that pregnant women consume 1 qt. of milk or dairy product; two eggs; one to two servings of protein such as fish, meat, beans or cheese; one or two large servings of fresh, green, leafy vegetables; two or three slices of whole wheat bread; cornmeal, cornbread, or tortillas; one citrus fruit or glass of lemon, lime, orange, tomato or grapefruit juice; three pats of butter; and a variety of other fruits and vegetables on a weekly basis.
March of Dimes Pregnancy Diet
Pregnant women can consider a diet plan formulated by the March of Dimes, an organization focused on preventing birth defects. This diet recommends that pregnant women eat an additional 300 calories per day and monitor sugar and fat intakes for maximum health. The diet should include 6 oz. of grains per day, including bread, cereal, rice or pasta, as well as 2.5 cups of vegetables and 1.5 to two cups of fruits. Three cups of milk products and five to 5.5 ounces of protein, like peanut butter, dried beans, lean meats, poultry or fish, eggs and nuts should also be consumed on a daily basis. As part of this diet, pregnant women should also a take a daily multivitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid every day before pregnancy and during early pregnancy.
Vegetarian Diet
The Vegetarian Resource Group recommends eating foods higher in fat, lower in fiber and eating more often to help pregnant vegetarians gain the weight needed for maximum health. Soy milk shakes and soy products, nuts, dried fruits and bean dips may be useful for this purpose. A vegetarian diet does not dictate a specific eating plan for pregnant mothers, but those following this type of diet should seek more protein from soy products, beans and grains; increased calcium and vitamin D from supplements and fortified soy milk, orange juice and cereals; and a higher level of iron from whole grains, dried beans, tofu and green leafy vegetables.
