Eating for two during pregnancy is a popular myth. There is no scientific basis to this common myth of pregnancy, yet they have a deep psychological effect on pregnant women. Hence in this section, we would like to clear your doubts. You can relax and enjoy your pregnancy while ensuring that you and your unborn baby are safe and healthy.
Fact:
Pregnant women do not need to increase their caloric intake during the first trimester. However, in the second trimester, it is recommended that she increase her daily intake by about 300 calories (approx), followed by 450 calories (approx) during the third trimester. The woman does not require doubling her intake as long as her diet during pregnancy is full of nutrition. Instead, she can just add an extra snack to her diet, as per her appetite and hunger.
A healthy diet for pregnant women consists of:
• Grains: Whole wheat, oats, quinoa, millets and rice to name a few
• Fruits: All types of fresh fruits like orange, avocado, strawberry, banana etc
• Vegetables: All types of vegetables like spinach, cabbage, beetroots, carrot, asparagus, parsley, broccoli etc.
• Protein: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, legumes, nuts and tofu.
• Dairy: Low-fat or toned milk, cheese and yogurt.
• Fats: Healthy fats such as canola oil, peanut, soyabean and olive oils. Other food sources of healthy fats include nuts and seeds
• Water: If you want to maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy, make sure to stay hydrated throughout the nine months. Dehydration during pregnancy can lead to many complications such as headaches, nausea, cramps, oedema, and dizziness.
- Coconut water
- Fresh lime water
- Clear soups
- Herbal infusions
- Homemade flavored waters
Proper nutrition is essential for both you and your baby, but figuring out what to eat during pregnancy can be very puzzling and confusing. To empower your knowledge and confidence that you are doing the best for your baby and your body contact Kanupriya at https://