What are the intake requirements?
The diet of a pregnant woman should be well-balanced and should contain a combination of healthy nutrients, which include:- Protein- The intake of Protein is crucial during the pregnancy period. It helps regulate the blood circulation of the mother and the child and ensures the proper growth of the child’s brain organs and tissues. Protein intake can consist of: chicken, fish, eggs, nuts and cottage cheese.
- Calcium- Calcium intake is vital in terms of the bone development of the child. Calcium intake must consist of: milk, cheese, yoghurt, green vegetables and low mercury fish such as tuna or shrimp.
- Folic Acid- Folic acid helps in preventing certain types of congenital disabilities. Folic acid intake can consist of: nuts, lentils, eggs and green vegetables.
- Iron- Iron intake is essential in ensuring that there is enough supply of oxygen for the baby as well as the mother. Iron intake can consist of: citrus fruits, lean protein, vegetables and eggs.
- Vitamin D- Vitamin D intake contributes to the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Vitamin D intake can consist of: eggs and fatty fish.
What should be avoided during pregnancy?
- Alcohol
- Smoking
- Any other substance use
- Excessive amounts of caffeine
- Processed meat or foods
- High cholesterol food (deep-fried)
- Fish with high mercury
- Unpasteurized dairy
- Raw meat/fish