All sorts of questions arise now that you are pregnant.Now more than ever it is important to eat good foods for you and your baby.Eat right and you are doing a lot to minimize your risk of pregnancy complications.  Learning what to eat during pregnancy has never been easier than it is now.  

First, remember that once you hit the second trimester, good nutrition during pregnancy requires that you eat about 300 more calories a day.Getting the right amount of calories will give you and your baby the energy you need.Just because you need extra calories does not mean you can take over at the buffet table.You will only be getting 300 calories.There are about 100 calories in a glass of milk or one banana, and about 200 calories in a slice of whole wheat bread, and ounce of cheese and a half cup of grapes.Drop the donut you have been flirting with, eat better foods, and you will discover that you can actually eat more food that is better for you. 

At least 3 servings of protein daily are required to give your baby what she needs to grow strong.Help your baby grow strong by getting protein every day.  Protein is very easy to come by and your options are endless.To get enough calcium, you can drink 3 glasses of milk, 2 cups of yogurt and 3 ounces of cheese.

In addition, you will need at least four servings of calcium daily.  Calcium is going to help grow your baby’s bones and help protect yours.  Milk is the best way to get your fill of calcium, but you can also get your fill of calcium from cheeses,  yogurt and even ice cream. 

Aim for at least three servings of vitamin C.  Your body does not store vitamin C so you need a fresh supply of it every day.There are lots of fruits and vegetables that contain vitamin C.  You also want to make sure you get three to four servings of green leafy and  yellow vegetables and fruits.  Most of these veggies and fruits will also count toward your vitamin C intake, so that is double the benefit. 

You should get in one to two servings of all other fruit and vegetables that are not known for their vitamin A and C value, but are still good for you all the same.  Apples,  banana, and onions are just a few that are in this category.   Eat six or more servings of whole grains and legumes.In addition to having good amounts of fiber, these foods also are high in vitamins B and E.   Try eating brown rice, whole wheat breads and even air popped corn to get  your servings of whole grains and legumes in. 

Perhaps one of the most important nutrients you and your body need is iron.There is no other time when your body’s demand for iron will be greater than when you are pregnant.It is important to maintain this.Getting enough iron will prevent you from getting anemia.Your doctor can prescribe an iron supplement if you feel you are not getting enough in your diet. 

A fit pregnancy gives your baby the best chance for healthy development.  And while it is always a good idea to eat well every day, when you are pregnant it is essential that you eat well every day.

Tags: fit pregnancy, good nutrition during pregnancy, pregnancy diet, pregnancy nutrition