Foods for Pregnant Woman – Know the List In Details

 
The most sensitive time for any woman is when she comes to know about her would-be motherhood. One expecting mom remains elated knowing that her entire life is going to change with the glimpse of small feet and untimely crankiness. From changing nappy to sleepless night – all are the part of a motherhood.

But, before becoming a mother, it is imperative for a mother to know that besides excitement, she needs to be specific about her food. Because if she neglects her diet, it is not only going to affect her health but also it will take a toll on unborn baby’s health. Thus, it is imperative to know about proper foods for a pregnant woman.

Pregnancy Complications Due to the Improper Diet

Unhealthy eating habits during pregnancy might lead to gestational diabetes and birth complications. Plus, a mother might find it difficult to reduce weight due to poor diet after the child’s birth. As per research, 300 to 500 extra calories need to be consumed at this time.

Foods to Eat During Pregnancy

Let us see the diet list that one would-be mother should follow to avoid any kind of complication during and after pregnancy.

Dried Fruit

Dried fruits are rich in minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients. Besides, prunes are high in Vitamin K, potassium, fiber, and sorbitol. And, dates contain a higher quantity of iron, fiber, potassium, and plant compounds. Since dried fruits contain more sugar and calories; thus, it is advisable to avoid its candied varieties and, do not exceed your intake more than one serving.

Berries

Berries contain both fiber and water. They have more carbs, fiber, and antioxidants. Due to the more amount of Vitamin C, berries help our body absorb iron. Thus, they help to make water and nutrient intake more in a pregnant woman.

Eggs

Eggs are the best foods for any health condition. One egg contains 77 calories, which are rich in protein, minerals and vitamins. They are found to be a good source of Choline, which is responsible for different processes in our body such as brain development.

Due to the lack of Choline during pregnancy, the risk of neural tube defect takes place, which can lead to the lack of proper brain functioning in the fetus.

Legumes

Legumes are found to be a great source of plant-based fiber, iron, protein, folate (B9), calcium. These all are important ingredients during pregnancy.

At the time of the first trimester, it is important for a pregnant woman to take more folate (B9). Due to the less folate intake, neural tube defects take place and it also causes low birth weight.
Legumes are rich in fiber. Few varieties also contain magnesium, iron, and potassium.

Lean Meat

Pork, beef, and chicken are a great source of protein. Plus, beef and pork are high in vitamin B, choline, and iron, which are highly recommended during pregnancy.

During the first and second trimester of pregnancy, a pregnant woman might get affected by iron deficiency anemia, which may increase the risk of low birth weight and premature delivery. But, it becomes difficult to cover iron deficiency with the help of the diet alone. If a pregnant woman does not have any reluctance eating meat, then this deficiency can be covered up with the time.

Whole Grains

During the second and third trimester of pregnancy, consuming more amount of whole grains suffice the calorie requirement. In comparison to packed grains, whole grains are rich in fiber, plant compounds and vitamins. Quinoa and oats are also rich fiber and they are good food during pregnancy.

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

There are certain foods that you should not eat or should avoid during pregnancy. Let us check the list below:

High-mercury Fish

For example, shark, tuna, swordfish etc. should be avoided as they are rich in mercury because they can be toxic for your kidney, nervous system, and immune system.

Raw or uncooked fish

Uncooked fish might invite several viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections. These infections make the mother weak. Plus, they will make the pregnant woman dehydrated.

Raw Eggs

Eating eggs are important for a pregnant woman. But, uncooked or raw eggs can cause bacterial infections. Uncooked eggs include:

• Poached eggs
• Lightly scrambled eggs
• Salad dressings
• Homemade mayonnaise
• Hollandaise sauce
• Cake icings

Raw, Undercooked, and Processed Meat

Even not properly cooked meat can invite several bacterial infections for the pregnant woman.

Conclusion

Wisely put, your food habit during pregnancy decides your unborn baby’s health. Plus, if you are not taking proper foods during pregnancy, it will cost you bad health after the baby’s birth and even after many years of baby’s birth. Every woman gains weight during pregnancy, which is normal and sane. But, gaining weight in a healthy way is also important as gaining unhealthy weight might give you an excessive trouble afterwards.

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