Did you know March is National Nutrition Month? Now is the time to sit down and really think about the role good nutrition plays during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. The growth of your baby in utero will influence the rest of his or her life. The focus on your nutrition is not only vital for your expected baby but will also help provide the extra energy needed for you and baby to make it to delivery day as healthy as possible.
The good news for you is that a healthy diet will let you feel great decreasing the odds that you’ll experience pregnancy complications such as anemia, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. Wholesome food selections may also help to lessen the unwanted symptoms of pregnancy such as morning sickness, fatigue and constipation. It can help alleviate mood swings, make you less likely to go into preterm labor and improve your odds of a timely labor and delivery. Your well-nourished postpartum body will have fewer pounds to shed and your recovery will be smoother and shorter thanks to the nutritional choices you indulged in!
By simply indulging in sensible, nutrient-enriched and well-balanced meals, you and your baby will thrive from day one of your pregnancy. Gathering the facts, making key nutritional decisions and understanding some of the basics is empowering. You will also most likely need to increase calories, protein, carbohydrates, iron, calcium, and folic acid. Get ready for your new exciting and healthy eating plan.
“One should eat to live, not live to eat” -Benjamin Franklin
