When you’re pregnant, your diet is one of the first things that you should start thinking of. It’s time to stop putting every sugary little treat that comes your way into your mouth. It’s time to chuck out all that unhealthy, packed, processed, pickled, salted and treated food lying in your refrigerator. Go out and buy healthy foods that give you the right proportion of carbohydrates, protein and vitamins such as green leafy vegetables that you always so conveniently forget to buy. If you already follow a healthy diet, then the transition to a good pregnancy diet will be relatively easy. If you have an unhealthy, free-wheeling diet (we all do, don’t we?), then a complete overhaul of what goes into your body is necessary to keep you as well as your little baby healthy and fit.
Your body requirement for some nutrients will increase when you’re pregnant. Even though your doctor will take care of that by recommending prenatal vitamins, it is important that you include some healthy food into your diet that contains these nutrients in their natural state. So what food will you be eating for 40 weeks, dear future-mommy? Read on to find out the five power foods that will help you and the baby stay healthy and fit.
Lean Meat
You’re literally creating life inside you, and you surely need the raw materials to do so. Lean meat contains proteins, which are the building blocks of the body that play an important role in your baby’s growth. Meat also contains iron, which is required in abundance during pregnancy for proper oxygen transport. So go ahead and chomp into some nice, lean chicken. But remember, no processed meat!
Eggs
Eggs are one of the best sources of protein and if you do not eat meat or your pregnancy has made you averse to it then you can simply substitute it with eggs. The amino acids in eggs help in the growth and development of your baby. Eggs also contain choline, which contributes to your baby’s brain development.
Green leafy vegetables
Folic acid and iron are two of the most important nutrients that your body needs during pregnancy. Leafy greens like spinach are rich in both of them. Simply toss them in a delicious salad and you’re good to go. Also, partake in some dark green veggies like lettuce and broccoli. Broccoli is great during pregnancy as it contains anti-oxidants, fibre and Vitamin C.
Oats
Oats can be the perfect breakfast for you to start your day. Oats are made of complex carbohydrates that will keep you energetic for a longer period. Just get some plain oats and avoid flavoured ones that may contain extra sugar. Add skimmed milk, toss in some healthy nuts and that is one hell of a power breakfast!
Bananas
A banana is, quite simply, a nice little power-booster which is convenient and delicious. Bananas contain a good amount of potassium that can energize your body in a jiffy. Even when you’re feeling nauseated, don’t worry, because a banana is extremely easy to digest. And don’t just be boring and eat a banana as it is. Get creative! Make a delicious banana smoothie or add banana slices in your morning bowl of cereal.
There are a lot of other ‘power’ foods that you can include in your pregnancy diet like beans, oranges and dried fruits. Mix, match, toss, and combine these delicious foods and you will get a healthy dose of necessary nutrients. Enjoy snacking!
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