Pregnancy is a very special time for women and as we all know a healthy and balanced diet is important throughout life but even more so during pregnancy. Healthy nutrition not only affects the mother’s health but also the proper growth and development of the baby.
The diet during pregnancy should be healthy, varied and balanced, which has a fundamental influence on the development of the baby. The needs of the foetus and the mother-to-be vary depending on the trimester of the pregnancy. For example, before conception and during the first trimester the mother must have sufficient reserves of folic acid. In addition, possible disorders, such as nausea and vomiting, can make the pregnant woman less hungry or intolerant of certain foods.
Tips for a more balanced life during pregnancy
It’s not about quantity, it’s about quality: Remember that being pregnant doesn’t mean eating for two, it means eating better.
Eat several meals a day: it is preferable to eat small amounts of food throughout the day rather than heavy meals. It is preferable to choose fruit or dairy products as snacks throughout the day between meals.
It is important to provide essential nutrients: it is necessary to provide some essential nutrients for the correct development of the baby. For example, there are complexes such as Calcium with which we will be contributing to the maintenance of normal bones, with Immunity Booster we will be contributing to the normal functioning of the immune system and with Omega 3, as its high content in docosahexaenoic acid contributes to maintaining the normal functioning of the brain.
Remember that it is important to always consult a health professional before taking any supplements so that they can recommend what is best for you.
Staying hydrated: Drinking water is very important in pregnancy, as well as other fluids, to maintain adequate hydration. It facilitates digestion, the elimination of toxins and helps to alleviate the main discomforts of pregnancy such as headaches and constipation.
How to cook food: Avoid adding too much salt to food when cooking. Grilling is one of the healthiest ways to prepare food, especially for meats and vegetables as they retain their nutritional values without the need for added oils. The same applies to steaming, which is ideal for fish and vegetables.
Taking care of yourself before and after pregnancy: It is important to stress that a balanced diet should be a way of life, not only during pregnancy. After pregnancy and during the breastfeeding period, a woman’s demands also increase, and therefore a healthy and balanced diet, rich in nutrients, is always necessary.
Is nutrition different during pregnancy?
The diet a pregnant woman should follow is not very different from the one we should follow at any stage of our lives. But what we must bear in mind is to ensure that we consume certain nutrients, such as fibre, which is essential to avoid the constipation typical of pregnancy, and vitamins. We should also avoid certain foods that can harm the baby’s development, such as sweets, pastries and alcohol.
Remember that it is important to always consult a health professional before taking any supplements so that they can recommend what is best for you.
