Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Pregnancy and Nutrition

(This blog is not meant to diagnose or prescribe treatment for any particular condition. Please consult with a qualified Chiropractor or MD in individual cases.)

One of the best sources, for all aspects of pregnancy is the so-called Bible, What to Expect When You're Expecting. They also provide excellent guidelines for proper eating during the pregnancy, for optimal healthy weight gain.

Nutrition plays an integral role in the healthy development of the fetus. Avoid large meal and long periods of time in between meals. Increase fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains and water intake. Take the pre-natal vitamin your doctor recommends, though you may have to supplement the Calcium levels, and the Folic Acid levels in the first trimester. The fetus absorbs the mother's calcium for bone building, and a pregnant or lactating woman has a higher calcium need than most. Druing the first trimester, it is also common for a woman to be repulsed by certain foods or smells, and dinner duty may have to be temporarily re-assigned.

An article I read recently made the following specific food recommendations:
AVOID Uncooked protiens, Spearmint and Sage (Herbs), no more than three cups of herbal tea per day, peanuts, nightshade foods (tomatoes, eggplant, green pepper, white potatoes), garlic, spinach and fish (because of mercury poisoning)

ADD IN Figs, Sesame/Techina, Beets, pomagranet, dates, avocado, grapes, papaya

I guess that means I should have my sushi and hot saki now, before I conceive...

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