The Correct Foods To Eat When Pregnant For You And Your Baby.

It is a time of great excitement when a woman finds out that she is pregnant

. The expectation and joy of bringing a new person into the world has to be experienced to be believed. However the initial excitement is quickly replaced by worry and concern, as the expectant mum has to deal with a full list of new responsibilities, not least among these being what are the best foods to eat when pregnant. Thankfully this is mostly common sense, and with a little research and application, expectant mums can relax knowing that they are doing the best for their unborn baby.

The best foods to eat when pregnant need to contain all the essential elements required for the healthy development of the fetus. These elements are proteins, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats and essential fatty acids. These elements can be sourced from healthy wholesome foods and pre-natal supplements that will be prescribed by your doctor. Ensuring that your pregnancy diet is full of these essential elements, sourced from the right foods, will give your child an excellent chance of developing fully, and to full term. However, if your pregnancy diet is bad, you run the risk of birth defects, miscarriage, low birth weight and mortality.

So what are the best foods to eat when pregnant?

Fish are an excellent source of minerals, proteins, vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids, all essential elements for the healthy development of your baby. Omega 3 fatty acids are vitally important as they are necessary for fetal brain, neurological and visual development, and are mainly found in fish and fish oils. Recommended fish include wild salmon, well cooked shellfish, sardines and canned light tuna. Limit your intake of fish to the EPA guidelines of 12 ounces/recommended fish/week. Avoid predatory fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tile fish, as they can contain high levels of mercury that can harm the development of the nervous system of your baby.

Pasteurised dairy products such as cheeses, milk and yogurts, are excellent sources of proteins and calcium. Proteins are known as the building blocks of life: they facilitate cell wall development of the organs and main tissues such as the lungs, heart, kidneys and muscles. Calcium is essential for the healthy formation of teeth and bones, helps prevent blood clots and helps muscle ands nerve function. Maintaining adequate levels of calcium is essential for the mother, because the fetus will source his calcium from the mothers reserves if he isn't getting it in his diet. This can lead to osteoporosis in the mother later in life.

As pregnancy progresses, the mothers production of bodily fluids increases. This means that her fluids demand will increase and it's important to meet this demand. Filtered water is best, but other sources can include fruit and vegetable juices, soups, caffeine-free drinks and sugar-free soft drinks. Staying hydrated has other benefits including avoidance of early labour, healthier skin and a decrease in haemorrhoids, constipation and bladder infections.

Getting to know the correct foods to eat when pregnant is not rocket science. It's just common sense coupled with a little research and application. Remember, if your baby could talk, he would thank you for your diligence and care.

by: Roger Noonan

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