If you have recently had a positive pregnancy test, you may be overwhelmed with the information regarding what you can and cannot eat. The first few weeks of your pregnancy are a time of immense growth for your baby and eating the right foods can help promote healthy development. Healthy Children reports that you should add about 300 calories worth of nutrient-dense foods to ensure your health as well as the health of your tiny, but growing little one.
Egg Whites
An egg white omelet is a nutritious addition to any diet, but can be particularly beneficial during early pregnancy. Your baby requires plenty of protein in order to form muscles, cells and blood, KidsHealth notes, and egg whites are a notable source of this nutrient. Adding protein to your diet will also enable you to keep your energy up during the first few weeks of pregnancy. Prepare an egg white omelet for breakfast by adding vegetables, such as broccoli or tomatoes, and low-fat cheese. A small amount of low-sodium ham or shredded chicken will add even more protein to your meal.
Green Salad
Not only are fresh vegetables full of vitamins and minerals, they can also promote the healthy growth of your baby. Leafy greens, such as spinach and romaine lettuce, supply iron for red cell production as well as folic acid, which helps prevent birth defects like spina bifida. Add carrots because they provide beta-carotene, which helps your baby grow healthy skin and eyes as well the bones that are beginning to form, KidsHealth notes. Broccoli and tomatoes are good salad additions and they each supply some vitamin C for healthy bone and teeth formation. Beans, low-fat cheese and nuts will all increase the protein content of your salad.
Yogurt
Yogurt supplies several nutrients for the first few weeks of your baby's growth. Calcium is one of the most notable, which is important for the development of your baby's bones, nerves and muscles. The protein in yogurt supplies you with energy and benefits your little one by encouraging proper cell and tissue growth. Choose low-sugar yogurt to keep your added sugar intake in check, which is not good for you or your baby. Add fresh fruit, such as berries, mango or bananas, to sweeten your yogurt as well as add some vitamins to your diet as well as the diet of your growing baby. Honey will also give your yogurt a slightly sweeter taste without adding sugar.
