Importance of nutrition during pregnancy from "summary" of Eat This, Not That! When You're Expecting by Jennifer Ashton, MD,David Zinczenko
Eating well while you're expecting isn't just a suggestion—it's a crucial component of a healthy pregnancy. The nutrients you consume during this time play a vital role in your baby's growth and development. From the moment you find out you're pregnant, your body needs additional vitamins and minerals to support the growth of your baby. This is why it's essential to pay close attention to what you're eating and make sure you're getting the right balance of nutrients. One of the key nutrients to focus on during pregnancy is folic acid. This B vitamin is crucial for the development of your baby's brain and spinal cord. It's recommended that women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant take a daily supplement of folic acid to ensure they're getting enough of this important nutrient. In addition to supplements, you can also get folic acid from foods like leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals. Another important nutrient to consider during pregnancy is iron. Iron is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to your body's cells. During pregnancy, your body needs more iron to support the increased blood volume and the needs of your growing baby. Make sure you're including iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and fortified cereals in your diet to help meet your body's increased demand for this mineral. Protein is another important nutrient to focus on during pregnancy. Protein is essential for the growth and development of your baby's tissues and organs. Make sure you're including sources of protein like lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes in your diet to ensure you're getting an adequate amount of this essential nutrient. In addition to these specific nutrients, it's also important to focus on eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dairy products during pregnancy. These foods provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals that are essential for both your health and the health of your baby. By eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods, you can help ensure that you're getting everything you need to support a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
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