• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

A high nutritional diet is critical for a healthy pregnancy. A mixture of foods that contain nutrients that are essential to growth will ensure the fetus is developed properly and the mother is healthy. The right nutrition during pregnancy is the foundation of a healthy life for the baby. Both the mother and the baby require a healthy diet during the pregnancy period and it is during this time when the body requires the intake of well-balanced meals. Not only does the baby require essential nutrients for growth but it is also the responsibility of the mother to consume a well-balanced meal during the course of her pregnancy.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Avni Kaul, Nutritionist, Dietician and Wellness Coach, Specialist of Pregnancy Health and Founder of Nutri Activania listed some essential nutrients that every expectant mother should know for a healthy pregnancy.

Essential Nutrients For Healthy Pregnancy

1. Nutrient: Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)

Folic acid is one of the essential vitamins as it plays an imperative role in the construction of a neural tube which later converts into the baby’s brain or spine. It is also effective for preventing neural tube defects by simply ingesting food items enriched with Folic Acid.

Food sources: Kale, spinach, beans, oranges, chile, fortified cereals, and whole grains.

2. Nutrient: Iron

Alongside calcium, another mineral that is crucial for women to consume is iron, it assists in making the extra blood needed for the growing baby. It is essential for an expectant woman to have sufficient iron intake to prevent anaemia and fatigue.

Food sources: Poultry, fish, red meat, tofu and, iron fortified cereals.

3. Nutrient: Calcium

The primary responsibility of calcium during pregnancy is to shape and strengthen the baby’s bones and teeth. Additionally, it also protects the bone structure of the mother and ensures that she remains healthy.

Food sources: Milk and cheese

4. Vitamin C

Vitamin C increases a plant source’s iron absorption potential while also facilitating bone and skin development in the baby. Furthermore, it strengthens one’s immune system.

Food sources: Citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, tomatoes and broccoli.

5. Zinc

Zinc is required for cell growth and for the immune system to function properly. It is essential for a successful pregnancy as it diminishes the risks of complications.

Food sources: Meat, shellfish, dairy, whole grain foods and legumes.

6. Iodine

Iodine is essential for the growth of a baby’s brain as well as its nervous system. Lack of it during pregnancy is harmful as it hinders the proper growth of the baby.

Food sources: iodized salt, fish, dairy and eggs.

Pregnant women should contact their doctor so they can develop a balanced diet plan and consider using pregnancy vitamins to satisfy their nutritional requirements.

ALSO READ: How Obesity Affects Your Chance Of Pregnancy? Know From Expert

ALSO READ: Boosting Your Immune System During Pregnancy: Doctor Recommended Tips For Winter Season

Also In News