Pregnancy Diet
Pregnancy Diet: Eat Well, Eat With Purpose For Total Wellness.
For some people, eating healthy or dieting has become a ‘cliché’.
Most women struggle with eating the right types of food during pregnancy. There is this myth that whilst pregnant, one can indulge and eat whatever is desired. This isn’t right…
As a mum of four, (5 years, 4 years and 9month old twin boys), during my last pregnancy with my twin boys, eating well and with purpose was so important to me. During the process, it is most essential to get all the nutrients you and your developing baby need. If you haven’t been eating as well as you should, it is important to start having nutritious and well balanced meals. Your body works more efficiently when you are pregnant and uses up the energy you get from the right foods you eat. So for the first six months of being pregnant, you really do not require any extra calories, however, it is advisable to speak to your midwife to know the best way to gain weight gradually.
The best rule to remember is to eat when you are hungry but ensure to eat the right meals. Eat a good balance of foods everyday and you will gain weight steadily as your baby grows. Have variety of delicious snacks and meals that are just right for you at each stage of your pregnancy.
In your first trimester, eat iron-rich foods which will help your blood to move oxygen around your body. Meals high in folate/Vitamin B6 is very essential at this level and great for developing your baby’s nervous system. It is also believed that such meals help to ease nausea.
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During your second trimester, have meals that are rich in calcium and vitamin D. These nutrient-dense meals will help your baby grow strong bones and will also contribute to the baby’s continued development. Also, Omega 3 fatty acid found in such meals is important for your baby’s brain development.
In the third trimester, you will need meals that will give you a much-needed boost in your energy level as you continue to push through to the finish line. Keep up with protein-rich foods all through your pregnancy journey to help with the baby’s development and if in doubt of what to eat or what not, then it is important that you consult your doctor.
The best rule is to find healthy alternatives to some of the foods you like to eat to ensure that you eat right, stay clean, and live a healthy lifestyle.
>>> QUICK AND SIMPLE HEALTHY MEALS
Author: Oge Akinola is the Founder and Senior Lifestyle Consultant at Bump n Chic. They cater to women during and after pregnancy, helping them towards leading a healthy Lifestyle through a 3 process strategy – Nutrition, Fitness, and Style to achieve total wellness spirit, soul, and body. They suggest the right healthy alternatives for your meals and promote well-balanced meals to aid baby’s growth and ensure that Mum is also in good health. Instagram: @BumpnChic Website: www.bumpnchic.com
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