|
|
Is my diet important during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, diet is even more important. The foods you eat are the main source of the nutrients for your baby.
|
 |
Revised guidelines for pregnant women in NZ[1] emphasised the importance of all the food groups, including vegetables, fruit and wholegrain breads, important food sources of iodine, food safety & the importance of folic acid supplements for pregnant women.
Research has shown a well-balanced diet contributes to:
• Normal birth weight for baby
• Improved fetal brain development
• Decreased chance of pregnancy complications such as morning sickness, fatigue, mood swings, anaemia and pre-eclampsia
• A speedy recovery after delivery
And remember that every day you improve your diet means not only a healthier baby, but long-term health effects for you, too. Make sure you discuss your individual nutritional needs with a professional.
For comprehensive nutritional advice for pregnant woman please visit New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines from the Ministry of Health. Alternatively please talk to your doctor.
[1] Providing up-to-date, evidence-based advice on nutrition to achieve and maintain the best possible health for a healthy pregnancy and the best possible pregnancy.
|
Should I eat for two?
Yes and no. This is a big mistake many women make during pregnancy.
Sure, you will increase your calorie intake as you need to provide wholesome nutrients for both you and the growing baby. However, many women use this as an excuse to over eat filling up on sugar loaded and high fat foods. Unfortunately, what isn’t used by the body and baby will be stored as body fat. Not to mention, all that fat and sugar will be playing havoc with your babies development. It is absolutely normal to put on body fat during pregnancy. However, be warned that you have to work hard afterwards to shed those pounds.
What should I eat?
Keep your diet balanced!
• Eat plenty of vegetables and fruit
• Eat plenty of whole grains
• Minimise processed foods such as white bread, white rice, etc.
• Aim to eat organic or free range when you can
• Drink lots of water
For comprehensive nutritional advice for pregnant woman please visit New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines from the Ministry of Health. Alternatively please talk to your doctor.
What should I avoid?
• Smoking may increase the risk of miscarriage and deprive your developing baby of oxygen and nutrients.
• Alcohol
• Taking medication without your doctor's approval. You must seek medical advise when taking any type of supplement or medication
For comprehensive nutritional advice for pregnant woman please visit New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines from the Ministry of Health. Alternatively please talk to your doctor.
What should I avoid?
Smoking - smoking may increase the risk of miscarriage and deprive your developing baby of oxygen and nutrients.
Alcohol
Taking medication without your doctor's approval. You must seek medical advise when taking any type of supplement or medication
For comprehensive nutritional advice for pregnant woman please visit New Zealand Food and Nutrition Guidelines from the Ministry of Health. Alternatively please talk to your doctor.
|
