Pregnancy Nutrition
 There are few times in a woman's life when she has to worry about her nutrition more than when she is pregnant. However, few women are aware of what exactly their pregnancy nutrition needs are.
It's true that you will gain weight when you are pregnant, but it is NOT true that you must eat twice as much. Gaining unhealthy amounts of weight when you are pregnant can lead to complications. A normal, healthy rule that many soon-to-be mothers choose to follow is to increase caloric intake by only 300 calories a day in the second and third trimester, and to maintain a normal, balanced diet in the first.
Some other things to take into consideration with your pregnancy nutrition are:
- Eat a balanced diet - Continue to eat a balanced diet while you are pregnant. Balanced nutrition is important to maintain your level of health and that of your baby.
- Follow labels - Labels are your friends when you are pregnant. Oftentimes your doctor will require you eat more or less of a certain nutrient, watch your cholesterol, and mind your carbohydrates. By following labels, you can accurately ensure you are getting the best pregnancy nutrition possible.
- Extra calcium, iron, and folic acid - These nutrients are vital to not only your changing body, but the growth and development of your baby as well. Ensuring you get enough calcium, iron, and folic acid can help your baby grow strong bones and can prevent some diseases and birth defects.
- Speak with your doctor - Your health care provider will be able to help you determine if you need to be following any special dietary plans to get the pregnancy nutrition you need.
If you have any questions about your nutritional health while you are expecting, your doctor or a nutritionist or dietitian who specializes in pregnancy nutrition should be able to answer any of your questions and help you create a diet plan to suit your individual needs.
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