You've just found out that you're pregnant! One of the best things that you can do for your little one now is to make sure that you're eating right. Protein, folic acid, and iron are all important elements for your growing baby and body. If you are starting out at a healthy weight to begin with then eating nutritious foods and taking a vitamin high in folic acid and iron during the first trimester is all you need. Raising your daily calorie intake by 300 calories during your second trimester and about 450 a day during your last trimester is recommended depending on your weight gain goal.
Here are some tips for healthy eating for you and your little one!
- Skip raw seafood, alcohol, and soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert.
- Calcium is important for you and your baby. Try adding an 8 oz glass of skim milk, orange juice, or cheese to you diet each day.
- Getting plenty of fresh vegetables every day that vary in color and textures is important.
- Fresh fruit such as grapefruit, oranges, strawberries, and cantaloupe are high in vitamin C.
- Try mixing it up a little and make yourself a banana smoothie, a homemade trail mix with peanuts and dried fruit, or yogurt and fruit with granola sprinkled on top.
- Try to limit junk food.
- You don't have to give up everything during pregnancy though! An occasional piece of cake or cookie won't harm you or your baby.
- Just remember to eat everything in moderation!
