The first trimester is a critical time in your pregnancy, so you need to choose foods that are nutritious for your growing baby. Foods high in nutrients are a great choice for snacks and meals, and they can even be included as a meal! You can also include whole grain cereal, which is an excellent source of vitamin C, in your diet. A serving of six ounces of dry whole grain cereal provides more than enough vitamin C for your daily intake.
During the first trimester, many moms-to-be find that they are not in the mood to eat their favorite fresh vegetables or lean meats. But the truth is that most new mothers have a hard time eating during pregnancy no matter where they are in their term. For now, don’t sweat it too much if you are not in the mood to load up a full plate for every meal. Instead, focus on these good-for-you foods in the first trimester to cover your nutritional bases.
Salmon
Fish is a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for the baby’s growth and development. It also helps protect the mother’s health by helping to prevent preterm delivery. It contains large amounts of vitamin D and is an excellent source of protein.
Eggs
Eggs are a cheap source of protein and provide a variety of vitamins and minerals. They are especially high in choline, which is essential for the healthy development of the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Choline is a relative of the B-vitamin, but until recently, it was barely discussed outside of research circles. Despite its high importance to the development of the baby’s brain, choline was not included in most pregnancy multi-vitamins, which is why it is so important to incorporate choline -rich foods into your diet.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great source of vitamin A, which is important for a pregnant woman’s immune system. It contains a lot of pro- vitamin A called beta -carotene, which helps strengthen the immune system. The good news is that sweet potatoes are safe to eat during pregnancy. They can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, including baked into chips and deep-fried.
Fruit
Fruit is a great source of vitamin C and fiber for both you and your growing baby. You should eat at least one serving of citrus fruits a day. If you’d prefer to drink citrus juice instead, limit your intake to a cup a day, as it is high in calories and lacks fibre.
Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is a great choice for pregnant women because it has twice the protein and probiotics of regular yogurt. It is also an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for developing baby bones. It also contains phosphorus, zinc, and folate. In addition, it is packed with vitamins and nutrients. In addition to its protein content, it contains probiotic bacteria that help in the healthy development of the baby’s brain.
Cheese
Cheese is an excellent source of protein, calcium, and Vitamin B, which can help you meet your daily nutritional needs, and it’s also good for the developing baby. But, be careful when choosing your cheese – there are some types that are harmful for you and your baby. Some types contain Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium that can cause infections, including fever and muscle aches. Listeria can also damage the outside of the brain.
Coconut water with magnesium citrate
If you’re pregnant, you need to make sure that your diet contains enough magnesium. This mineral is important during pregnancy because it can help prevent high blood pressure and the symptoms of preeclampsia. It’s also essential for the fetus, as calcium is transferred from mother to fetus through the placenta.
Choline
Choline is an essential nutrient for both mama and baby. It acts as a vitamin and is essential for proper brain development, proper uptake of Omega-3 fatty acids, and overall health. It is best obtained from diet or supplements.
You can still gain weight with your pregnancy diet, even in the first trimester. If you are going to count calories or try to stay on a specific diet, be sure you get all of your nutrients with what you decide to eat. Never use something like, “I’m pregnant so I can eat whatever I want” as an excuse to eat unhealthy foods over healthier options.