PROPER DIET FOR A HEALTHY PREGNANCY
Your health and your baby’s well-being depend on your diet. Eat well-balanced meals containing adequate amount of protein, vitamins and minerals.

10 SUGGESTIONS TO HELP YOU EAT RIGHT:

• Increase your intake of protein, folic acid, iron, and calories (for that much-needed energy).
• Limit junk food. They offer only empty calories.
• Avoid raw or undercooked food (seafood, meat, poultry), as well as soft cheeses (or unpasteurized milk). These are possible sources of bacteria, harmful to the unborn child.

• Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. Too much caffeine can lead to miscarriage, low birth weight, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
• Drink plenty of water, and at least 8 ozs. Of fresh fruit or vegetable juices, a day.
• Drink milk 2-3 times a day. Milk is a rich source of calcium – necessary for the baby’s bone and teeth development. (Skimmed milk is ideal for those watching their weight.)
• Eat plenty of yellow fruits; raw or cooked leafy green or yellow vegetables; and whole grain breads and cereals. Fruits are good source of Vitamin C. Vegetables and whole grains provide the needed bulk and roughage to prevent constipation.
• Eat small meals every 4 hours to ease hunger and morning sickness. Eating 5-6 mini meals a day is easier on the body than the usual 3 hearty meals a day.
• Do not eat too many starchy, fatty, or sweet food.
• Use as little salt as possible to prevent edema, which is due to accumulation of fluid, usually on the feet and ankles.