Your unborn baby's brain development depends largely on the nutrients that your body provides. In order to make sure that your baby's brain develops properly in the womb, it is important to understand which foods can help encourage development and which to avoid.
Needs
Kids Health states that you need 300 extra calories each day from nutritious foods during your pregnancy. This will help make sure that you provide yourself and your baby with adequate nutrition and energy. What you eat and drink is the main source of nourishment for your baby and her brain development.
Variety
A healthy and varied diet is essential for brain development as well as for other growth and development for your unborn baby. You need a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. Sources of protein include chicken and lean meat, while whole grains like bread and pasta offer carbohydrates. Olive oil and avocados are healthy fats that can encourage your baby's brain development. Talk to your doctor about taking a prenatal vitamin that can help provide you with the vitamins necessary for your baby's optimal development, such as folic acid and vitamin B12.
Seafood
Eating fish can help promote your baby's brain development during pregnancy. Fish contains DHA, an omega-3 essential fatty acid that the American Pregnancy Association states can help improve your baby's future behavior, attention, focus and learning skills. However, fish also contains mercury, which in large amounts can harm your baby's brain development. To consume fish safely, MayoClinic.com recommends eating 12 oz. a week of salmon, shrimp, catfish or tilapia. Avoid large predatory fish with high levels of mercury, like tilefish and mackerel. If you cannot eat fish during your pregnancy, talk to your doctor about taking fish oil supplements.
Warnings
Consuming unsafe food can harm your baby and affect her brain development. Make sure any meat you eat is cooked thoroughly. Steer clear of alcohol, which can affect your baby's brain development even if you are eating a healthy diet.
Recommendations
Just as getting proper nutrition is important during pregnancy, it also is important in the months leading up to conception. If you think that you might become pregnant or are afraid that you are not eating enough nutritious foods during your pregnancy, talk to your doctor about the best nutrition plan.
