Pregnancy Diet

What is a Good Diet for a Healthy Pregnancy?

Every woman wants to do everything they can to ensure that they deliver a healthy baby. Though they want to do this, many women are not sure what they need to do to make this happen. Many women use pregnancy, as an excuse to eat whatever they want, but this is not good for the mother or her unborn child. Eating for two becomes a problem for pregnant women. Women need to understand that though they might be having cravings, eating a healthy diet is vital for a good pregnancy. Eating a healthy and well balanced diet is one of the very important ways to aid in the delivery of a healthy child.

To make sure they receive the proper amount of nutrients needed, women should incorporate a variety of healthy foods into their diet. How would a pregnant woman know how many nutrients they should be taking in? The best way to help guide a woman is by looking at the Food Guide Pyramid. As with any person, pregnant women should use fats, oils, and sweets sparingly. Pregnant women should try to aim for the high end of the serving range for the other food groups. One slight difference is that pregnant women should try to get at least three servings in the dairy group.

When preparing a meal women should remember never to eat food that is raw or undercooked. Women should ask their OB/GYN what types of cooked fish and shellfish are safe to eat. They should also avoid soft cheeses. Drinking non-pasteurized milk or juice is also prohibited. Pregnant women should also avoid lunch meats, hot dogs, and spread able cheese and meat products. The reason for avoiding these foods is because these foods may carry bacteria that are harmful for her and her unborn child.

Pregnant women should also make sure they drink at least six to eight glasses of fluids as part of their healthy diet. This may include not only water, but milk and juice also. This will not only help prevent dehydration and constipation, but the fluids help bring nutrients to the unborn child. Because caffeine may not be healthy for an unborn child pregnant women should avoid coffee, tea, and other drinks with caffeine in it.

Eating for two is something all pregnant women should be aware of. They need to be educated on what a healthy and balanced diet is for her and her unborn child. The best way to do this is to ask their health care provider. Their doctor will help them set up a healthy diet to help ensure a healthy baby.