Pregnancy And Baby Care Articles Pregnancy Diet

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A sample pregnancy diet menu would include six to seven light, easy to digest meals instead of the usual three large meals, in a day. Large portions of food must be avoided in order to reduce discomfort caused by indigestion which is a common symptom of pregnancy. Since most women experience morning sickness, opting for a light breakfast with toast or cereal and a fruit or vegetable juice is advisable. Citrus juices like the juice of oranges or limes are advisable as they are rich in vitamin C, known for its ability to boost the immune system. Heavy foods such as eggs, known to aggravate morning sickness, must be avoided. A vegetarian pregnancy diet meal plan complete with leafy vegetables, salads and fruit is highly recommended as these foods are a rich source of a number of nutrients. They also provide roughage required for smooth bowel movement. Regular healthy snacks in the form of fruit like apples and bananas and vegetables such as carrots and radish are recommended. Eating the same fruit or vegetable could prove disheartening. Having a variety of foods not only makes meal time more interesting but also provides for the nutritional needs of the mother and baby alike. Lunch and dinner could include small portions of rice preparations, salads, pasta, fish as well as small amounts of white meat. A glass of milk must find a place during the course of the day, unless advised against by a medical practitioner. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is also essential to increase metabolism and to prevent dehydration.

While following a pregnancy diet meal plan, one must avoid a high sugar intake because during pregnancy, the body's ability to metabolize sugar reduces manifold and thus, increases the risk of gestational diabetes. Similarly, expectant mothers must reduce their intake of red meats, spicy and oily foods and other foods that they find difficult to digest since the digestive system becomes sluggish due to hormonal changes that are a part and parcel of pregnancy.

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