Eating well during pregnancy is very important to ensure that the mother and the developing fetus have the level of nutrients needed for strong health. While cravings are common during pregnancy, most foods consumed during the nine months should be healthy. The American Pregnancy Association states that eating a healthy diet during pregnancy works to help ensure an easier labor. Talk to a doctor before making any changes to the diet.
Meal Ideas
Some healthy meal choices include eating a variety of foods such as an apple and a cup of fat-free yogurt, two tablespoons of peanut butter with whole-wheat toast, a cup of chili topped with one-half an ounce of cheese or one-half cup of fat-free milk. Expectant moms may also like eating one small banana chopped in slices with one cup of raisin bran cereal, three ounces of chicken breast or lean ham with one-half cut sweet potatoes, notes the Weight-Control Information Network website, a division of the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Each of these meal choices has about 300 calories.
Almonds, Strawberries & Oranges
Some healthy foods to eat during pregnancy include almonds, orange, peach, strawberries, Swiss cheese, notes the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Other healthy foods this group recommends include olives, avocados and nuts.
High-Folate Foods
Foods with a high level of folate are very important during pregnancy as they work to prevent birth defects. Foods with strong levels of folate include fortified breads and cereals, orange juice, beans, spinach and broccoli, notes the Weight-Control Information Network.
Legumes
The American Pregnancy Association recommends eating legumes regularly during pregnancy. Some healthy legumes include split peas, chick peas, kidney beans, black-eyed peas and black beans. An easy way to eat legumes is to add them to salads or soups or puree them to make a spread to put on celery sticks.
Oatmeal, Yogurt & Milk
It is important to eat breakfast while pregnant. If morning sickness impedes eating a meal first thing in the morning, crackers or whole-wheat toast will help to quell the nausea. Then eat breakfast as soon as the stomach settles down. Some healthy breakfast foods during pregnancy include fruit, oatmeal, milk or yogurt, notes the Weight-Control Information Network.
High-Fiber Foods
To prevent constipation during pregnancy eat a wide range of high-fiber foods. Also drink water regularly during the day and exercise to avoid constipation. Some healthy high-fiber choices include brown rice, fruits such as strawberries, kiwi, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, notes the Weight-Control Information Network.
Leafy Vegetables
Leafy vegetables are also a healthy food during pregnancy. The American Pregnancy Association advises women to eat vegetables regularly during a pregnancy. Some healthy leaf vegetables include lettuce, turnip, collard greens and cabbage.
Fruit
Snack ideas during pregnancy include fresh fruits or canned fruits. Fruits such as grapes and bananas are easy to eat on the go. Other healthy fruits include apples, peaches and oranges, notes the Weight-Control Information Network.
