- Health advice
- Aug 01, 2016
Ideally all of the nutrients you need for optimal pregnancy health, are provided through a balanced, varied, nutrient-rich diet.
However you may find this challenging at times from the stress of work, living a busy life, and the unfortunate reality that soils are no longer as nutrient dense. It’s important you cover all the bases; supplementation is often your best option!
- Eat whole foods! Ditch the processed junk that will leave you nutritionally empty
- Good quality protein is extremely important in pregnancy (lean meat, cooked fish/seafood, eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, well-formulated protein powders)
- Enjoy complex carbs (whole grains) but avoid refined, processed carbs which can increase your blood sugar levels and also lack nutrition
- Enjoy as many veggies as you can handle and choose fresh fruit over dried to prevent a spike in blood sugar
- You caloric needs only increase by about 15% in pregnancy, so no need for a change in portion sizes. Does, “but I’m eating for two!” sound familiar?
- A good preconception/pregnancy multivitamin will cover all of your increased nutrient requirements (B vitamins, iodine, iron, zinc, etc.)
- Omega-3s contain DHA, a fatty acid important for your baby’s nervous system development
- Calcium, magnesium and vitamin D are generally required in greater amounts than what is provided in a multivitamin (otherwise the tablet would be huge!)
- Ensure you receive plenty of nourishing rest
- Manage stress levels. You don’t want high amounts of stress hormones passing through to your baby! Try yoga, tai chi, massage, aromatherapy, Epsom salt baths, etc. are all great options