Making healthy food choices during pregnancy can help you have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. While you should consult with your doctor regarding your pregnancy and any specific health issues you may have, here are 5 tips to help make healthy food choices during pregnancy.

1. Set A Pattern.

Healthy eating is easier if you get into a routine. Instead of worrying over specific foods, focus the majority of your diet on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy and whole grains. Look for foods without added sugars, saturated fats and sodium.

2. Get The Right Number of Calories.

Talk to your doctor or health professional about how many calories you need during your pregnancy. Overall, most women do not need any extra calories in their first trimester. During the second trimester you may need around 340 extra calories and during the third 450 calories.

3. Take A Prenatal Vitamin.

While your normal diet may be varied and healthy, you do need extra folic acid, iodine, iron and calcium during pregnancy. Taking a prenatal vitamin ensures you are not missing or low on these essential nutrients.

4. Say Yes to (Some) Seafood.

Fish and shellfish have healthy fats that are good for you and your baby. Some fish are high in mercury, a metal that can affect fetal development. Stick to fish low in mercury, such as shrimp, canned light tuna, pollock and sardines.

5. Stick To Low Sugar Drinks.

Juices and sodas and a major source of added sugar in most people’s diets. If you have not already eliminated them from your diet, now might be the time to start. Try replacing soda with flavored seltzer water, which will give you a nice flavor without the sugar.

Making healthy food choices during pregnancy does not have to be hard but changing ingrained patterns and habits can be a bit of a challenge! Set up an appointment with Dr. Karen today to learn how we can support you through a healthy pregnancy journey.

Karen L Leibowitz, MD
Health and Lifestyle Coach
KareBoost Health