During pregnancy, a healthy diet is critical to both the mother and the baby. This includes six to 11 servings per day of bread, cereal, rice and pasta for the fiber and nutrients. You should get two to four servings of fruit per day, three to five servings of vegetables, two to three servings of protein and two to three servings of dairy. As you plan your daily menus, try to balance them with a variety of foods among these food groups.
Sample Breakfast Menus
Since breakfast is the first meal of the day after at least hours without food, make them as nutritious as you possibly can. One healthy breakfast is whole grain cereal with skim milk, a handful of almonds and a serving of fruit. Another option is one cup of low fat yogurt, a slice of toast and half a banana. If you have to eat on the run, have an open face peanut butter and sliced banana sandwich on some whole wheat toast.
Lunch Menu Ideas
Whether you have a job or work at home, you'll want something to eat that is delicious and nutritious. A healthy and interesting sandwich option is to stuff a whole wheat pita with lean meat and several servings of vegetables. Wash this down with a glass of milk or a yogurt drink. Fruit makes an excellent dessert. If you're not in a sandwich mood, toss some leftover protein from the night before onto a bed of crisp romaine lettuce. Add some more vegetables and low fat dressing. You may top this with croutons or have a slice of bread on the side.
Delicious Dinners
Dinner is the time to relax with family or friends, so fix something everyone will enjoy. A small amount of lean protein, such as baked fish or skinless chicken breast with homemade macaroni and cheese on the side should make everyone smile. For color, add steamed broccoli. Stir fry is another delicious option. Throw some lean meat, crisp, colorful vegetables and a tablespoon of olive oil into a pan. Serve this over wholesome brown rice for a simple but healthy meal.
Snack Ideas
If you have an appetite between meals, go ahead and have something to eat, but make sure it's healthy and counts toward your daily nutrition. Some ideas for snacks that offer the nutrition you need include cheese and whole grain crackers, fresh fruit or yogurt.
