How Important Is Healthy Eating During Your Pregnancy?

Pregnant woman in kitchen making a salad and smilingIf there is one time in your life during which it is crucial to have a healthy diet it is during pregnancy.

Fetal development depends on not only the health of the mother, but also what she is putting into her body. Toxins and preservatives hinder the fetuses ability to develop healthily during pregnancy, and they contribute to birth defects and other medical problems. If you are pregnant, then it is crucial that you take your diet very seriously. The quality of life of your baby depends on it. Let’s take a look at some healthy eating habits moms can develop during their pregnancies:

What to eat: When you are pregnant, your body uses nutrients to nourish you and your growing baby. Increasing your intake of iron, folic acid, protein and calories will help your baby grow and develop with a lower risk of birth defects and complications. Fruits, veggies, grains, and protein from nuts and poultry should be the staples of your pregnancy diet.

What not to eat: Just as it is important to know what to eat during your pregnancy, it is equally as important to know what not to eat. Many foods are good to avoid because they have no nutritional value, but some foods are actually dangerous to the newly forming baby. Avoid raw eggs, raw and undercooked meats, fish that contain mercury, and unpasteurized milk.