Importance of A Health Diet During Pregnancy

Eat well is not just our Granny's -sometimes tedious- advice but of particular importance for pregnant women. Eating a well-balanced diet is not the old misconception of eating "for two" increasing meal ration size either, one for the mother-to-be and another for the developing baby and does not mean increasing how often you eat.

What about having twins, triplets or more? A woman simply cannot eat as many servings for each one, gains 20 to 40 pounds on average, and yet consider she is eating well. Certainly, about 300 extra calories will be required every day during the pregnancy and even after, to feed the baby, but being overweight will never be a synonym of good nutrition.

If you are pregnant, keep in mind that everything you eat and drink becomes the source of nourishment for your developing baby. If you dream of the newborn's arrival, do not wait until the birth date and begin eating well even before you plan the pregnancy.

Alcohol and drug consumption are not safe during pregnancy nor is smoking. However, drink plenty of water and natural citric juices along with a diet rich in fiber and dark-green leafy vegetables, not only to provide the mother-to-be with the folic acid a woman is requiring during this stage, but also add carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals and fats, which will bring additional benefits for both, the mother and the baby.

If you are in doubt, ask your doctor or request for dietary guidelines published by the US government or your local Health Organizations.