21 weeks pregnant
Easier said than done, right? I’m reading Eating Well When You’re Expecting by Heidi Murkoff. I may be known as the Health Nut in my circle, but I did not realize the importance of eating healthy when a woman is expecting. Here are the footnotes:
Why eat healthy?
Research continues to show that pregnant women who are well nourished are more likely to have a safe and uncomplicated pregnancy than women who are not well-nourished. On average, healthier diets yield far healthier babies. A diet with adequate complex carbs can reduce fatigue. My personal strategy for nourishing myself and Baby Z is to ensure I am getting a decent amount of protein, fruits, vegetables and carbohydrates at every meal. Take it one meal at a time so that eating a balanced diet will not become overwhelming. Think of healthy eating as one of the best gifts you can give your baby-to-be. Isn’t he/she worth the sacrifice?
I bet you didn’t know this: Making a concerted dietary effort in the last trimester will fuel that amazing brain expansion. I’ll have to admit, the last trimester has been the most tempting to slack off. Yes, I am still going to the gym 3 – 4 days a week and eating a balanced diet, but my dessert intake is a little high. For some reason every Wednesday night I craze a medium Snickers concrete from Culvers. And my protein intake has seen better days. Time to get back on track.
A baby’s food preferences can be formed before he/she ever takes a spoonful of food. Yeah, I better put this bag of cheetos down. I want Baby Z to love her fruits and vegetables.
Inadequate zinc intake is linked to low-birth-weight babies and a diet deficient in folic acid can cause fetal growth restriction. I am also diligent about taking my New Chapter Prenatal Vitamins every day. I have not vomited once, thank God and my momma (good genes)!
What changes can you make to your diet to better nourish your baby?
The cravings for sweets certainly are increased in the third trimester for me as well. I stock up on lots of soups and veges and chicken and potatoes too. In terms of cravings it could be worse. You are right on about those vitamins though. Besides benefits for babies im turning into rapunzel over here
Very true Kristina, thanks for the tips!