Follow These Rules for Healthy Eating When You Are Pregnant

You found out you are pregnant.Now is the time to be sure you are eating the right foods.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.Getting enough calories without overdoing it is important, as both you and your baby need the energy.Just because you need extra calories does not mean you can take over at the buffet table.This is only 300 calories.There are about 100 calories in a glass of milk or one banana, and about 200 calories in a slice of whole wheat bread, and ounce of cheese and a half cup of grapes.You will see how much more food you can eat when you eat this way, rather than having that donut you crave. 

At least 3 servings of protein daily are required to give your baby what she needs to grow strong.Everyone needs protein, but you need more now that you are eating for two.  Protein is very easy to come by and your options are endless.To get enough calcium, you can drink 3 glasses of milk, 2 cups of yogurt and 3 ounces of cheese.

In addition, you will need at least four servings of calcium daily.  Calcium is going to help grow your baby's bones and help protect yours.  Milk is the best way to get your fill of calcium, but you can also get your fill of calcium from cheeses,  yogurt and even ice cream. 

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 can eat fruit or almost any vegetable to get your vitamin C in.  You also want to make sure you get three to four servings of green leafy and  yellow vegetables and fruits.An added benefit is that these fruits and most vegetables will give you vitamin C. 

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.  Apples,  banana, and onions are just a few that are in this category.   Eat six or more servings of whole grains and legumes.  These are filled with vitamins E and B and they help you battle constipation.   Try eating brown rice, whole wheat breads and even air popped corn to get  your servings of whole grains and legumes in. 

Iron is without a doubt one of the most important nutrients you need when you are pregnant.There is no other time when your body's demand for iron will be greater than when you are pregnant.   You want to make sure you are able to keep up with it.Getting enough iron will prevent you from getting anemia.If you have any concerns, ask your doctor about getting an iron supplement. 

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.