How to Eat Better for Pregnancy

Becoming pregnant may adjust your motivation when it comes to eating better. Your prenatal diet can benefit both you and your baby. Besides making healthy choices, you will only need an extra 300 calories each day. Learn how to make the right choices regarding nutrition--choices that should continue even after the baby arrives.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Eat breakfast. It is an important meal, and one that you need to consume to give both you and the baby energy and adequate nutrition. Skipping breakfast can cause blood sugar to drop, sometimes inducing nausea. Even if you've never been one to eat in the morning, start now.
2. Choose a breakfast that includes protein, carbohydrates and a little fat.
3. Avoid the junk-filled vending machines when seeking a snack. Turn to granola bars, crackers, popcorn, string cheese, baked chips or fruits and veggies.
4. Don't fear fish. It's true that some fish with high mercury levels can be dangerous during pregnancy, but many can be a great source of protein and omega-3s for mom and baby. Shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish are choices to avoid. Good options include Pacific salmon and tilapia. Ask your doctor for other healthy fish choices.
5. Drink lots and lots of water. By the third trimester, your body's blood volume will triple. You require fluids to make that possible. Keep bottles of water around you at all times. Your goal should be pale and plentiful urine.
6. Indulge in cravings in a healthy way. Sweet? Go for berries over chocolate. Salty and crunchy? Choose light popcorn rather than fatty chips. Greasy? Make an English muffin pizza with low-fat mozzarella, tomato sauce and a whole-grain English muffin rather than calling Domino's.