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Foods To Eat When Pregnant.

By Roger Noonan

Republish: EasyPublish™
Published: 24Oct2009
Word count: 514
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Knowing the right foods to eat when pregnant is an essential part of every pregnancy plan. The right pregnancy diet will ensure that the developing fetus is getting all the essential nutrients that he requires to give him the best chance of developing normally. Unfortunately in this day and age, with the extent of processed foods, pollution, and intensive farming, there is a much higher possibility that you may be eating the wrong pregnancy food than not, and this is why it is so important that responsible expectant mothers take the time to learn the right foods to eat when pregnant.

The right foods to eat when pregnant will be by and large, natural and wholesome foods that will provide the required vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, fatty acids and folate, all the essential elements that the baby requires. It should be noted that a sustained shortage of any of these elements can lead to an increased possibility of disabilities in the new born child, as well as low birth weight, brain damage, miscarriage and mortality.

Examples of some of the recommended foods to eat when pregnant are as follows:

Fish: The FDA recommend a weekly allowance of 12 ounces of the following fish: canned light tuna, catfish, pollack, salmon and shrimp. These fish are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids and protein. Protein is essential for healthy cell growth, while omega 3 fatty acids are required for the development of the baby's verbal skills and behaviour. Be careful about consuming other types of fish, particularly large fish like shark, marlin, king mackerel, swordfish and tilefish, as all these fish can contain high levels of mercury in their system, which will be detrimental to the development of your baby's nervous system. Also avoid raw fish like sushi and shellfish, as these can contain bacteria that will cause food poisoning and infection.

Folic acid is a vital element for the development of your baby's brain and spinal column. A shortage of this element can lead to brain damage, paralysis, incontinence and spina bifida. Foods that contain folic acid include dark green leafy vegetables like romaine lettuce, strawberries, broccoli, lentils and oranges.

Foods to eat when pregnant should include dairy products like pasteurised milk, cheeses and yogurts. These foods are excellent sources of calcium, that is essential for healthy fetal development of tissue and bones, and muscle growth. Dairy products are also excellent sources of protein, as well as chicken, beef, fish, beans and nuts. Adequate protein will ensure normal cell development for the organs, nervous system, tissues and muscles.

Regular consumption of citrus fruits, strawberries, and brussels sprouts will ensure that both mother and baby are getting adequate levels of vitamin C, which is recommended for healthy teeth and bones and the development of a strong immune system. Vitamin C also helps the mother with possible wound healing post birth.

As a responsible expectant mother, knowing the right foods to eat when pregnant means that you can have peace of mind, knowing that you are doing everything possible to ensure the delivery of a happy and healthy baby.

For the health of your unborn child, get to know the foods to eat when pregnant. < = = click this link NOW! Also make sure you read this "must see" article on pregnancy nutrition advice.

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