Understanding Nutrients And Diet For Pregnancy One of the most important elements of good prenatal care is an adequate and nutrient-rich diet. As the body begins to change drastically with each passing month, the nutritional requirement of your body also changes. A proper nutritional diet throughout pregnancy ensures optimal health for the mother and improves the baby’s healthy growth and development. Essential nutrients that good prenatal care can provide for an expectant mother: • • •
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Folic Acid is a B vitamin that helps to improve the overall health and wellness of the mother and baby. Iron increases hemoglobin in the blood to enhance blood oxygen level for more oxygen supply to the baby. Omega 3 fatty acids help develop the baby’s little growing heart, immune system, and brain, especially during the third trimester which is the peak stage of the baby’s growth. Protein intake ensures enhanced tissue repair for the mother’s body and muscle, hair, and skin development for the baby. Vitamins B & C are essential to regulate the hormones and also mitigate cramps and pain. It also helps with the baby’s tissue development and skin health. Copper is a crucial micronutrient for both the baby’s and mother’s bone development and health.
With good prenatal care that includes regular medical consultations and an adequate diet, you can excellently promote your baby’s health from the womb itself. Let’s look at some important tips for a pregnancy diet and good prenatal care: Do not skip breakfast: It’s true that during pregnancy you might feel sickness and loss of appetite in the morning hours. But you must avoid skipping breakfast at all costs. Eat well in the morning and intake whole wheat items and boiled food. Eat adequately and not for two: Most people believe that one must double up to food intake to ensure a good pregnancy diet. Well, eating for two is a myth! Eat food in healthy proportions and periods. Add more fiber: Fibrous diet is essential for good prenatal care. Fiber helps the mother’s body tackle digestive troubles and constipation.
Healthy snacking: Cravings are normal for expectant mothers but ensure that you snack on healthy food.