As an expecting mother, the health of your unborn child is largely based on what you eat while you are pregnant. Too many women ignore this fact and eat lots of junk food and fast food while they are with child. It seems that all mothers would want to give their children the best possible start to their lives, and this means adhering to a proper nutrition plan while pregnant. In the following paragraphs I will cover some tips for developing a healthy and tasty pregnancy diet.
Mix It Up
Eating for optimal health does not require you to eat chicken breast and broccoli at every meal. Eat a wide variety of meats, dairy products, fruits, vegetables and legumes to make sure the growing fetus gets all the nutrients it needs. I recommend filling your fridge with all kinds of healthy foods. A good pregnancy diet does not have to be boring or limited.
Strive for Balance
The majority of the food you eat should consist of healthful choices, but it is okay to have a treat now and then too. I do not recommend polishing off a whole carton of ice cream, but a bowl of it is okay. As long as you are eating plenty of green vegetables, fiber rich foods, healthy fats, and proteins, the occasional treat will not be a problem.
No Dieting!
No woman wants to gain 100 pounds while pregnant, but that does not mean it is okay to diet. Your body has fairly high calorie requirements during this time, and not giving it what it means can be detrimental to the health of the baby and the mother. Gaining weight during pregnancy is not optional it is a requirement. Your pregnancy diet must include adequate amounts of nutritious food to support the work your body is doing each day.
Try New Foods
If you get tired of eating the usual foods, do not be afraid of branching out and trying new things. You can try new ethnic cuisines or different seasonings, or get some fruits and vegetables you never eat from the farmer’s market. You may get some unusual cravings while you are pregnant, and there is no reason for you not to indulge as long as the foods are safe for women who are with child.
What to Eat
It is important to choose the right foods to include in your pregnancy diet. The three main types of foods you need to consume are vegetables, meat and fats. Yes, you read that right. Growing fetuses need plenty of dietary fat to assist in growth and brain development. Eating full fat dairy, olive oil, avocados, and even fatty cuts of meat is highly recommended.
I also recommend eating a salad with fresh leafy greens like spinach and arugula every day, and consuming fresh fruits like blueberries, pineapple and bananas.
The ideal pregnancy diet will include a wide variety of whole foods with an emphasis on nutrient rich vegetables, essential fats, and complete proteins. This will ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.
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