Although it is important for everyone to eat a well-balanced diet, you need to be particularly conscientious about doing so when you become pregnant. The food you eat during early pregnancy can affect the growth and development of your unborn baby. If you have specific questions or concerns about your diet during the first few months of pregnancy, consult your midwife or obstetrician.
A Well-Balanced Diet
The March of Dimes recommends that pregnant women aim to eat foods from each food group every day. The organization specifically recommends that pregnant women eat 6 oz. of grains, 2 1/2 cups of vegetables, 1 1/2 to 2 cups of fruit, 3 cups of dairy and 5 to 5 1/2 oz. of protein each day. Select food items that are high in nutrients and avoid foods that contain excessive amounts of sugar or fats.
Things to Avoid
Your unborn baby is undergoing many important development milestones and growth during early pregnancy. While eating nutritious foods can aid this growth and development, eating certain foods may cause harm. Avoid seafood containing high levels of mercury, unpasteurized food items, raw or undercooked meats and unwashed fruits and vegetables, warns MayoClinic.com. In addition, avoid alcohol, drugs, cigarettes and food or beverages containing high levels of caffeine. Also check with your doctor before taking any medication or herbal supplement.
Misconceptions
Although pregnant women often hear others say they should "eat for two," pregnant women generally only need approximately 300 extra calories per day, according to the March of Dimes. It is not necessary to eat multiple servings at every meal, as these extra 300 calories can be met through one or two additional healthy snacks a day, such as an extra glass of skim milk or peanut butter crackers. Talk to your doctor if you have specific questions or concerns about your caloric intake during the early part of pregnancy.
Considerations
Getting nutrients from food is best, but taking a prenatal vitamin during early pregnancy can help ensure you and your unborn baby receive the vitamins and minerals you both need during early pregnancy. Some pregnant women also choose to take additional supplements, including those containing DHA, calcium, fiber, folic acid or iron. Although these additional supplements may be beneficial in certain situations, you should always talk to a doctor before taking these supplements. A prenatal vitamin and supplements are not a substitute for a healthy, well-balanced diet.
Warning
Some pregnant women who suffer from morning sickness have difficult maintaining a healthy diet during the early part of pregnancy. Morning sickness is common and not typically a cause for concern, but some pregnant women develop a condition called hyperemesis gravidarum. This condition is characterized by severe nausea, vomiting and weight loss. Severe cases of hyperemesis gravidarum may require hospitalization and an intravenous feeding tube to ensure the mother and baby receive adequate fluid and nutrition, explains the American Pregnancy Association. If you suffer from severe morning sickness and are having difficulty keeping food down, call your doctor.
