Eating Healthy During Pregnancy:

Why is eating healthy during pregnancy important?

Eating healthy is important at all times, however it is vital during pregnancy. Because the nutritional requirement of a pregnant woman increases dramatically, what she eats not only affects her health but also the development and wellbeing of her unborn child.

  Eating for two?

While the need for certain nutrients does increase during pregnancy, this does not mean you should eat twice as much food! It is the quality of what you eat which is important, not the quantity.

Daily dietary requirements:

There are a wide range of foods for you to choose from to ensure you meet all your nutrient requirements.

Your daily diet should include the following:

Carbohydrates such as bread (preferably whole wheat), pasta, cereals, grains and potatoes.

Milk and other dairy products like cheese and yogurts (low fat).

Fresh fruits and vegetables, all citrus fruits and green leafy vegetables which contain folic acid.

Lean meat or fish which are rich in essential fatty acids. However consult your physician or dietician on which fish are healthy for consumption, especially during pregnancy.

Plenty of fluids are a must during pregnancy. So drink plenty of water and fresh fruit juices. This will keep you well hydrated and prevent headaches and fatigue, and keep your bladder and kidney healthy.

Most of the nutritional needs of pregnancy can be met by eating a well balanced diet. Following a healthy eating regime means eating good healthy food, maintaining meal timings, eating healthy snacks and drinking plenty of fluids.