A diet during pregnancy is not all about eating for two. Although pregnant women are eating for themselves and their baby, that does not mean double the amount. A healthy diet during pregnancy is essential because it is necessary that the baby gets all the nutrients needed to grow and that the new mom feels energized.
Food is Fuel
Food is fuel at all times and especially during pregnancy. Pregnancy is not a time to limit calories or to over indulge. Eating a variety of foods like fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains are crucial to the diet. Eating all kinds of foods will help fuel the body and give it the energy it needs to help the baby grow and help new moms feel good.
Caloric Intake
The caloric intake during pregnancy is crucial because it is necessary for moms to eat enough food. Consuming too little calories will deplete the body of energy. Eating the right number of calories will also help the baby gain weight. According to the website Mamas Health, during the first three months there is no need to change the diet. An extra 300 calories are necessary in the last six months totaling a healthy caloric intake of 1,900 to 2,500 calories.
Nutrients
Specific nutrients are very important during pregnancy in order for the baby to reach his full potential during development. According to the Mayo Clinic, folic acid is the most important vitamin to include in a pregnant women's diet. Folic acid will help to prevent birth defects and can be found in cereals, peanuts, spinach, beans and oranges. Calcium is also important during pregnancy because it will help to build a base for strong bones for the baby. Eating low-fat yogurts, milk and cheese will help increase calcium in the diet. Iron is also needed in the diet because it will help to create the baby's blood supply. Sources of iron include cereal, beans, meat and spinach.
Energy Foods
Eating foods that are sugary will not provide long-lasting energy for pregnant women. Instead they will receive energy for only a short period of time. Eating starches is a much better option to produce energy in the body. Whole grain breads, pastas and rices will help to create a feeling of fullness and energize the body. According to the website Baby World, energy from starchy carbohydrates will absorb more slowly, creating a feeling of fullness as well as provide vitamins, minerals and fiber for the body.
Misconceptions
Although pregnancy the body is feeding two people during pregnancy, that does not mean double the portion sizes at every meal. Unlike the picture painted of pregnancy through movies and television, women should not stuff their faces with anything and everything. Nutrients and a healthy weight gain should be the priority during pregnancy.
