Essential Nutrients to Consume During Pregnancy

Carrying a baby in the womb is very crucial time in any woman’s life. Everything she consumes affects the baby. In such scenario, she has to be extremely cautious about her food intake. Apart from following a balanced diet, she also has to make sure she gets the right nutrients. Health Me Up lists a few essential nutrients every pregnant woman must consume.

Folic acid
Folic acid or vitamin B9 is a vital nutrient to consume during pregnancy. This nutrient helps in the production of red blood cells. It also helps in the functioning and repair of DNA. Consuming folic acid supplementation has also shown significant decrease in the risk of preterm delivery. Foods like spinach, beans and peanuts are a good source of folic acid.

Calcium
The mother and the baby both need calcium for strong bones and teeth. Apart from that, calcium also helps in circulatory, muscular and nervous system functioning. Foods like milk, yogurt, cheese and salmon are good sources of calcium.

Vitamin D
Vitamin D will help maintain energy levels, support the immune system and most importantly will help in the growing of the fetus. Consuming appropriate amounts of vitamin D will ensure bone strength of both the mother and the child. Ideally the early morning sun is a good source of vitamin D.

Iron
Iron is required to make hemoglobin in the body. It is an extremely essential nutrient during pregnancy as the baby and the placenta needs more blood. Foods like meat, spinach, poultry are good sources of iron.

Source: healthmeup.com

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