Looking after your health becomes even more important when you are pregnant. You have to consider the fact that there’s another life inside of you. You can’t anymore say that you will eat just for yourself; remember you get to share what you eat with your precious little one. Thus it is essential that you eat the right foods and take in the right nutritional supplements for the good health and proper development of your baby.
Because you are pregnant, you need to take in a good amount of iron as this helps in the development of red blood plus it also aids in the growth of the placenta. Good sources of iron include meats, grains, cereals and vegetables.
The demand for calcium increases during pregnancy. This very important mineral aids in the development of the bones of the growing fetus, thus taking calcium during pregnancy should not be taken for granted. Dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt, as well as tofu, spinach, and broccoli are good sources of calcium.
It’s also important for the expectant mother to take Vitamin E supplements to prevent low birth weight. Vitamin E as you must know also helps in muscle development and formation of red blood cell tissues. Be warned however that too much Vitamin E in the blood may result to stillbirth.
Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine plays a significant role in the development of your baby’s brain and nervous system. It’s also been found to reduce incidence of morning sickness. Watermelons, bananas, and chicken meat are abundant sources of Vitamin B6.
Vitamin B1 or Thiamine, which is found abundantly in whole grain foods and eggs, also helps in the development of the central nervous system. You need to take lots of Vitamin B1 to prevent beriberi which can damage the heart and lungs of your baby.
Another important B Vitamin to take during pregnancy is B9 or Folate. Folate helps in the brain development of your baby and prevents Spina Bifida, a neural tube defect wherein the spinal cord and spinal column are not completely closed. Folate can be found in large amounts in green and leafy vegetables like kale and spinach. Orange juice also contains Folate.
Don’t skimp on proteins, especially during pregnancy. Proteins are important in building the cellular structure of your baby’s body. Eat enough fish, meat, eggs, cheese and tofu to ensure that you will meet your daily requirement of proteins. Do take note that your need for protein increases during the 2nd and 3rd trimester of your pregnancy.
Last but not least of the must-take nutrients is zinc
Pregnancy Miracle-At Age-43
