Essential Nutrients during Pregnancy
Everyone is familiar with the Food Pyramid. A colorful diagram of food groups you should eat on a daily basis and how much of each group will give you your daily nutrients. Simple and easy to use, but what guidelines are in place during pregnancy? According to the My Pyramid Plan for Moms, expectant moms should increase their calorie intake approximately 300 calories per day. This increase will depend on several factors such as weight before pregnancy, height, and physical activity and should be under the advice of your Doctor.
Always remember to eat a good variety and balance of foods from each food group. Making sure you get complete nutrients from the foods eaten will help to avoid taking extra supplements during pregnancy. If you do take supplements during pregnancy for added nutrients, do so at your Doctor request and under their supervision.
To gain a better understanding of the servings suggested of each food group during pregnancy, please visit My Pyramid Plan for Moms. This information is dependent on personal information prior to pregnancy. Once you have submitted your information, you will see a guide built based on your specific input. Print it out and take it to your next appointment to discuss with your Doctor.
Tip: If you do take a pre-natal vitamin or additional supplements, try to take them during a meal or snack to avoid nausea or possibly at bedtime with a small snack. Ask your Doctor for his recommendation.
Source:
My Pyramid Plan for Moms, MyPyramid Web site
Pregnancy Nutrition, American Pregnancy Association Web site
