...tube defects occur during early pregnancy which is caused by deficiency of folic acid. Peas, beans, green leafy vegetables and nuts are all rich in folic acid. In addition to foods rich in folic acids, folic acid supplements are also recommended. Vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 helps during pregnancy as it is needed for formation of red blood cells and also helps the nervous system. This is found commonly in fish, meat and milk. Iron should also be included as it helps keep anemia away because it helps in red blood cell production. Spinach, cereals and lean red meats are all iron rich foods. These are a few pregnancy diet tips which should be kept in mind during pregnancy period.
There are various pregnancy diet restrictions that a pregnant woman needs to follow. It is essential also to avoid certain foods during pregnancy especially if they are harmful to the mother and the baby. There are a number of foods when consumed in excess are harmful during different stages of pregnancy. Excess of vitamins like vitamin A which is good for eyes however when consumed in excess can be harmful to the baby as it contains retinol. Diet restrictions during pregnancy also include avoiding foods like raw foods like seafood, sushi and oysters should be avoided as they contain salmonella poisoning and listeria. Fish which have high mercury content like shark, swordfish should preferably be avoided. Mercury in excess may cause brain damage which in turn may cause developmental delays in learning to walk or talk. Raw unpasteurized eggs may contain salmonella poisoning or bacteria that could cause harm to the baby. Liver and liver products also unpasteurized milk is also to be avoided. Alcohol is known to cause birth defects and fetal abnormalities. Caffeine causes miscarriages in early stages of pregnancy when consumed in excess.