Don't Ignore These Tips On What To Eat While Pregnant

What a great surprise, you just found out 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.  Calories provide you with the extra energy that  your body needs to grow your baby.Just because you need extra calories does not mean you can take over at the buffet table.You will only be getting 300 calories.  A glass of milk or one banana equals 100 calories and a slice of whole wheat bread, and ounce of cheese and a half of cup of grapes equal 200 calories.Leave the donut, eat more nutritiously and you will see that you can actually eat more food with the same calories, but which is better for you and your baby. 

Your baby will be better off if you eat at least 3 servings of protein every day.Protein will supply important building blocks for your baby.  Protein is very easy to come by and your options are endless.Try something like 3 glasses of milk, 2 cups of yogurt and 3 ounces of cheese.

Four daily servings of calcium are also important for you and your baby.  Calcium is going to help grow your baby's bones and help protect yours.Milk, cheese, yogurt and even ice cream are excellent ways to get the calcium you need. 

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.You have lots of choices for getting vitamin C, as there are lots of fruits and vegetables that have high levels of vitamin C.  You also want to make sure you get three to four servings of green leafy and  yellow vegetables and fruits.Many of the vegetable and fruits will give you vitamin C too, so that is an added 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.Some examples in this category are banana, apples, and onions.Every day, eat 6 or more serving of 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. 

Be sure to get enough iron, as it is one of the most important nutrients for you and your developing baby.  Your body's demand for iron will never be greater than it is while you are pregnant.It is important not to ignore this.  Not enough iron could lead to anemia so you want to make sure you are getting enough iron.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.