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Pregnancy and Nutrition is an extremely important topic and vital to Women’s Health. A well-balanced Nutritional Plan  is essential for those planning to become Pregnant and for those who are currently pregnant.

But what is right and what is wrong before and during Pregnancy?

This question has been asked for decades and depending on who you talk with….you can get a variety of answers.

Professionals indicate that certain foods, eaten during pregnancy, can affect the child before and after birth. These foods can have good and bad outcomes. Proper nutrition can help reduce morbidity and mortality of both the child and the mother.

But just as some good foods, can help the mother and child, it is believed that poor food choice can do just the opposite. It is understood that a proper nutrition intake and diet can be essential for adequate growth and development of the unborn child. The key is that it is never too early or even too late to start.

Pre-Pregnancy

These resources required during pregnancy and childbirth. The health of the mother prior to pregnancy is essential and helpful for success

Anorexia and bulimia are believed to be linked to infertility and increased lack of success of pregnancy and Childbirth

Overweight women also may have infertility and hormone problems such as insulin resistance.

Important nutrient vitamins include:

–  Magnesium
–  Zinc
–  Vitamin D
–  Vitamin B12

Pregnancy

Development of embryo is in full swing and large amount of energy is required. A women’s amount of calories essential does not need to double – but a moderate increase in caloric intake is essential.

Lack of certain vitamins can lead to problems such as neural tube defects – [lack of Folic Acid].  Excess amounts of alcohol or drugs can lead to poor outcomes and problems for the embryo

Recommended Nutrients During Pregnancy

–  Vitamin C
–  Vitamin D
–  Protein
–  Energy
–  Calcium
–  Iron
–  Folate
–  Niacin
–  Magnesium
–  Iodine
–  Thiamin
–  Riboflavin

Recommended Daily Servings

1.)  Protein:  2-3 servings

2.)  Beans:  2-3 servings

3.)  Dairy:  3-4 servings

4.)  Vegetables:  2-3 servings

5.)  Fruits:  2-3 servings

6.)  Whole grains:  3 servings

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

–  Seafood high in mercury [Swordfish, shark, tilefish]
–  No raw shellfish or fish
–  Avoid undercooked meat and eggs
–  Avoid unpasteurized foods such as cheese and mild
–  No caffeine or excess caffeine
–  Large amount of Liver
–  Alcohol