Friday, October 30, 2009

Preggiy Mom's Strategies (1 of 2)

● Eating For Two

If you think of nothing else while you’re pregnant, please think of what you will put in your mouth and the effect it will have. We know you must be sick of hearing this now, but we cannot over emphasize the importance of nutrition while you ar pregnant. If you’re having a hard time resisting sweets and chasing after vegetables, keep these thoughts in mind.

● You will feel better and look better if you eat well.
● Good nutrition helps prevent stillbirth and low birth weight.
● If you eat well, there’s less possibility of delivering prematurely.
● Good eating habits create a strong uterus which is needed for a problem-free delivery.
● Nutrition is your best defense against infection on you and your baby.
● Good food is what your baby needs most; if you do not give him the nourishment he needs, you may stunt his growth.

Remember, eating well means eating right. Every nutrient, vitamin and mineral plays a critical role during pregnancy. You must always stay within your obstetrician recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals.

● Pump Up The Iron

Iron is the single most important minerals during pregnancy. It is essential for the transport and use of oxygen in the body.

For Mom: Iron deficiency is associated with low pregnancy weight gain and poor maternal immune status. Iron prevents low birth weight and premature delivery. That’s why during pregnancy, You will need to double your usual daily iron requirement (at least 30 to 40 mg.)

For Baby: Iron helps support the growth of the placenta—the main source of nourishment for your baby. It also needs to be stored in the baby’s tissue for use during the first few months after birth.

Where to get it: Lean red meats such as sirloin, rounds, and the like are good sources of iron. You may also try spinach, beans, lentils, molasses, chickpeas, dried apricots, and iron-fortified cereals.

No comments: