It’s important to be curious and to always ask questions, especially when it comes to things that concern you or your health. Some of the answers to pressing questions can be found by taking a closer look at what you already have in front of you. One of the main things – and a joyous one at that – that can happen in a woman’s life is pregnancy. However, before the revelry begins, it’s essential to learn about and examine the correct and healthy food choices to make during pregnancy.
Beneficial Foods During Pregnancy
A pregnant woman needs certain nutrients and vitamins to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby. Here are some of the essential nutrients and foods a pregnant woman should consume:
1) If a woman is already in her last trimester of pregnancy, it is recommended that she increase her calorie intake by at least 200 kilocalories per day. This is important in order to keep her filled with energy, especially during the critical moments of labor.
While energy can be obtained from sweet foods such as chocolate, it is generally recommended that a woman does not take too much chocolate in order to avoid having the mother and baby’s blood sugar too high that can cause complications. Rather, the most desired source of energy are foods rich in carbohydrates.
2) Protein is an essential nutrient for pregnant women. It helps maintain a healthy body mass and supports the growing baby. The best sources of protein are meat and fish, but you can also get it from vegetables.
3) While a pregnant woman doesn’t need to drink gallons of milk per day, it is important to make sure that she is getting enough calcium. This mineral is vital for strong bones, and also aids in the formation of the baby’s body. The best sources of calcium are milk and cheese.
4) Vitamin C is an important nutrient for pregnant women since it helps prevent depletion of essential nutrients. Pregnant women should aim to increase their intake of vitamin C by at least 120 milligrams per day, which can be easily done by incorporating more citrus fruits like lemons, guava, and papaya into their diet. However, since most fruits and vegetables contain vitamin C, as long as a pregnant woman regularly consumes fresh produce, she is unlikely to become deficient in this nutrient.
5) Vitamin D is another important nutrient that can be found in fruits, meat, and of course – sunshine. Many doctors recommend that women take a stroll in the sun each morning to receive their daily dose of vitamin D and to keep their immune system strong.
6) Iron is another essential nutrient to get during pregnancy, which can be found in milk and meat.
