WHAT TYPES OF FOODS SHOULD I EAT ?
We recommend a daily prenatal vitamin . These vitamins help you meet your daily vitamin and mineral requirements ; however , they are not a substitute for a sensible diet . Prenatal vitamins contain folic acid , which has been shown to decrease the chance of your baby having a neural tube defect ( birth defect of the spine or brain ). Iron supplements may be advised to prevent or correct anemia .
All pregnant women should consume liberal amounts of water and fluids , usually five to eight glasses per day . Caffeine should be limited to less than 300mg per day . The average 12-ounce soda contains 50mg of caffeine . Consuming sweetened beverages can lead to a weight increase beyond what is considered the normal weight gain during pregnancy .
Many pregnant women will experience food cravings ( pickles are the classic example ). Some women will have cravings for non-food items such as clay , dirt , and baking soda . This condition is known as “ pica .” Please do not be embarrassed about discussing this with one of our physicians .
Vegetarian diets during pregnancy may be adequate if they include milk products , eggs , cereal , seeds , and nuts in addition to vegetables and fruits . To assure optimal nutrition for you and your baby , it is best to inform us of your vegetarian preferences so we can coordinate your care with your healthcare team .
What types of food should I avoid ?
As a mom to be , there are a few specific foodborne risks to be aware of . These risks can cause serious illness to you and your unborn baby .
• Do not eat hot dogs or lunch meat unless heated until fully cooked .
• Do not eat soft cheeses ( such as Feta , Brie , Queso ) unless labeled as “ pasteurized with milk ”.
• Do not drink unpasteurized milk or eat foods that contain unpasteurized milk .
• Do not eat raw or undercooked meat or unwashed fruits and vegetables . uabmedicine . org 43