Eat Healthy For A Healthy Baby

Naini Setalvad requests pregnant ladies to read this article to ensure that they become the mothers of well-nourished babies

Pregnancy introduces a _ host of physiological and emotional changes in a woman. Advice pours in from all quarters: from well-meaning friends and family members to colleagues at work. Even perfect strangers have been known to put in their two bits when it comes to commenting on a pregnant woman’s health. In the face of often-contradictory advice—especially regarding one’s diet—it may be hard for a mom-to-be to make her choices.

The most important thing you need to remember is that you are not eating for two people. The biggest myth about pregnancy is that one needs to eat double their normal intake of food. In reality, you are eating for one plus one very small being. Women only need to consume an extra 300 calories per day. Far from being a time for overindulgence, pregnancy is, in fact, a time to sensibly eat healthy food. Here are a few foods you must include to nourish yourself and your baby well:

Organic and natural foods: In a world where everything comes in a package, I want you to think outside the box, quite literally. Eat food made with fresh ingredients containing minimal additives and preservatives. Using local and seasonal produce will ensure you are consuming fewer pesticides.

Seasonal vegetables: Eating fresh and locally sourced seasonal vegetables is a must. They provide you with all the essential vitamins and fibre required during pregnancy while keeping sugar levels and cholesterol in check. Make sure 50 per cent of each meal comprises vegetables.