Follow These Rules for Healthy Eating When You Are Pregnant

Your pregnancy test came back positive, and you are excited.What you eat now will have a big impact on the health of you and your baby.Eating the right foods will help you avoid pregnancy complications.  Learning what to eat during pregnancy has never been easier than it is now.  

First, remember that once you hit the second trimester, good nutrition during pregnancy requires that you eat about 300 more calories a day. Getting enough calories without overdoing it is important, as both you and your baby need the energy.Just because you need extra calories does not mean you can take over at the buffet table.This is only 300 calories.  A glass of milk or one banana equals 100 calories and a slice of whole wheat bread, and ounce of cheese and a half of cup of grapes equal 200 calories.If you eat this way, you will find that the amount of food you eat is actually more than if you just gave in and had that donut with sprinkles you have your eye on. 

Your baby will be better off if you eat at least 3 servings of protein every day.Protein will supply important building blocks for your baby.  Protein is very easy to come by and your options are endless.  You can drink 3 glasses of milk,  and  you can have 2 cups of yogurt along with 3 ounces of cheese. Four daily servings of calcium are also important for you and your baby.In addition to supplying your baby with the calcium needed for bone growth, you are also protecting your bones.Milk, cheese, yogurt and even ice cream are excellent ways to get the calcium you need. 

Aim for at least three servings of vitamin C.  Your body does not store vitamin C so you need a fresh supply of it every day.  You can eat fruit or almost any vegetable to get your vitamin C in.  You also want to make sure you get three to four servings of green leafy and  yellow vegetables and fruits.  Most of these veggies and fruits will also count toward your vitamin C intake, so that is double the benefit. 

Iron is without a doubt one of the most important nutrients you need when you are pregnant.You will need to get more iron than ever when you are pregnant.It is important not to ignore this.Not enough iron can cause anaemia, so be sure you are getting enough.  If you feel that you are not, talk to your doctor and he might be able to prescribe you a iron supplement. You should get in one to two servings of all other fruit and vegetables that are not known for their vitamin A and C value, but are still good for you all the same.Some examples in this category are banana, apples, and onions.You need to get 6 or more servings of grains and legumes daily.These foods are loaded with vitamins B and E, and they can also have fibre that can keep you regular.   Try eating brown rice, whole wheat breads and even air popped corn to get  your servings of whole grains and legumes in. 
A fit pregnancy gives your baby the best chance for healthy development.  And while it is always a good idea to eat well every day, when you are pregnant it is essential that you eat well every day.