While pregnant, you have a lot of things to think about; what crib to purchase, names to think about and more. However, you need to put an equal amount of effort into thinking about the right foods to eat. You may be taking a prenatal vitamin daily, but the Mayo Clinic recommends that getting your nutrients from a food source is a more natural way to consume the vitamins and minerals that will help your baby to grow and develop, as well as provide you with adequate nutrition to carry the baby.
Fish
While you may often hear that fish is generally not allowed with pregnancy, according to an article published in the U.S. News and World Report, it's a myth. The article goes on to say that fish that is high in mercury, like swordfish or sea bass, is not a healthy choice, and uncooked fish in sushi should be avoided or limited to two servings per month. However, low-mercury fish like trout and salmon are safe to enjoy. Fish provides you with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which help brain and nervous system development.
Oranges and Grapefruits
You have a weakened immune system while pregnant, which means you'll catch more colds and flus. Unfortunately, Sophie Pachella, nutritionist and contributor to "American Baby" magazine notes that while pregnant, you're five times more likely to contract something more serious when you have a minor ailment while pregnant. Load up on vitamin C in the form of oranges and grapefruits. They also make a good snack for those suffering from morning sickness. Trusted pregnancy website, Babycenter.com recommends 85 mg of vitamin C per day.
Nuts
Nuts are a good snack idea for pregnant women. Pregnancy website WhatToExpect.com notes that nuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids like DHA, and protein, which means a small handful goes a long way. Many pregnant women are constantly hungry, and nuts that are full of protein can help you feel fuller longer. Sprinkle some on a salad to make it more substantial, or enjoy in a trail mix for snacking.
Leafy Greens
You may not love to eat spinach, but it is a good source of folic acid. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends getting enough folic acid per day to prevent birth defects like spina bifida. Leafy greens and legumes are good sources of folic acid, but you may also need to take a supplement to get the recommended amount of folic acid that your doctor requires.
Garlic
Garlic isn't just a vegetable for Italian cooking; it serves a purpose when you eat it while pregnant. According to Sophie Pachella, garlic can slash your risk of contracting preeclampsia while pregnant, a condition where your blood pressure soars to unmanageable levels. Use fresh garlic in your cooking; add a small amount of minced pieces to bread, pasta and salads.
Yogurt
Pregnancy website, WhatToExpect.com, notes that yogurt has as much calcium as milk, along with other nutrients like folic acid and more protein that milk doesn't have. It's also very versatile; you can add it to smoothies, use it in a parfait or just enjoy it on its own for a healthy snack.
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