What do I Eat When I am Pregnant?

 

Finding out that you are pregnant can be exciting, frightening, and confusing. No matter how prepared or unprepared you are to find yourself pregnant there are so many old wives' tales and bar stool advisors it is easy to get confused about what you should be eating while you are pregnant.

 

How much Weight Should I put on in Pregnancy?

 

This varies from person to person. The weight you gain will include an increase in amniotic fluid, your uterus, the baby, the placenta and even your breasts.

The diagram opposite gives you an idea of what your weight gain should be but this is person-specific.

 

 

 

What foods Should I eat When Pregnant?

 

Pregnant women need to be especially careful to eat a varied fresh and healthy diet. They must include the following food groups in their diet:

  • Protein
  • Calcium
  • Iron
  • Folic acids
  • Healthy fats
  • Wholegrains
  • Vitamins & minerals

 

What foods should I avoid when pregnant?

  • Uncooked meats and fish
  • Too high of a sugar intake
  • Unpasteurised dairy products
  • Alcohol and caffeine
  • Unnecessary food supplements
  • Shark or tuna
  • Liver

 

What Supplements should I take?

This largely depends on what your health is like and balanced and varied of a fresh food diet you eat.

All women are recommended to take Folic acid before they conceive (if possible) and for the first trimester to avoid the risk of Spinda Bifida in their unborn.

Some women, particularly those who have difficulty conceiving will benefit from a preconceive vitamin supplement that has been specifically designed for infertility and people with PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome). 

Partners of potential mums to be can also benefit from vitamin supplements designed to deal with infertility.

There is also a supplement to help with libido in women which has had amazing results much to the surprise of those taking it.

Once pregnant a good multivitamin that is not too high in vitamin A will be of help both to ensure the healthy development of the unborn child and to help the mother to cope with the tiredness and stress of pregnacy.

Even while taking a supplement continue to eat a varied and fresh diet and keep hydrated.