Pregnancy is a special time in a woman’s life, and maintaining a healthy and balanced diet is crucial to both her and her baby’s well-being. However, many women may worry about gaining excessive weight during pregnancy and struggle to find a meal plan that allows them to maintain a healthy weight. To prevent the extra pounds from piling on, it’s important to follow a pregnancy diet that helps you stay fit without sacrificing nutrition.
During pregnancy, it’s essential to consume the right nutrients to support your baby’s growth and development. However, it’s equally important to avoid excessive weight gain that may lead to complications. To achieve this, focus on eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These nutrient-rich foods will provide you with the energy you need while keeping you full and satisfied.
Avoiding empty calories from sugary drinks, processed foods, and unhealthy snacks is crucial during pregnancy. Instead, opt for nutritious snacks like fresh fruits, yogurt, nuts, or whole-grain crackers. These snacks not only provide essential vitamins and minerals but also keep hunger at bay. It’s also important to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues and eat when you’re hungry rather than out of habit or boredom.
Proper Nutrition for Pregnancy
A balanced diet is crucial for women to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy and prevent excessive weight gain. It is important to plan meals carefully and avoid gaining extra pounds that can be difficult to shed after childbirth.
Diet Plan
During pregnancy, women should focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals. This includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. It is also important to limit the intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and beverages high in added sugars.
Gaining Weight
Weight gain during pregnancy is natural and necessary for the baby’s growth and development. However, gaining weight in a healthy manner is key. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the appropriate amount of weight gain for your individual situation.
- Avoid crash diets or strict calorie restrictions, as they can deprive both the mother and the baby of necessary nutrients.
- Focus on eating nutrient-dense foods that provide energy without excessive calories.
- Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, eating when hungry and stopping when satisfied.
- Stay physically active with regular exercise, as recommended by a healthcare provider.
Meal Planning
Planning meals in advance can help ensure that you are getting the right balance of nutrients and avoiding impulsive, unhealthy food choices. Consider the following tips:
- Include a variety of foods from different food groups in each meal.
- Opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to prevent overeating.
- Choose whole foods over processed options whenever possible.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Remember, maintaining a healthy pregnancy weight is about nourishing your body and the growing baby, not about strict dieting. By following a balanced and nutritious eating plan, you can have a healthy pregnancy and better postpartum weight management.
Importance of a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet is crucial for pregnant women to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy and prevent excessive weight gain. It is essential to follow a well-planned and nutritious meal plan that provides all the necessary nutrients without adding extra pounds.
During pregnancy, women need to consume more calories to support the growth and development of the baby. However, it is crucial to focus on quality rather than quantity. A balanced diet should include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to ensure that both the mother and the baby receive all the essential nutrients.
Preventing Excessive Weight Gain
One of the main reasons to maintain a balanced diet during pregnancy is to prevent excessive weight gain. While weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, gaining too much weight can lead to various complications, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, and difficulty during delivery.
By consuming a balanced diet, pregnant women can control their calorie intake and ensure that they are gaining weight within the recommended range. This can be achieved by avoiding high-calorie and unhealthy foods, such as sugary snacks, fried foods, and processed snacks.
Avoiding Dieting
It is important to note that maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy does not mean going on a restrictive diet or trying to lose weight. The goal is to nourish the body and provide the baby with the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and development.
Restricting calories or following fad diets during pregnancy can deprive the baby of essential nutrients and affect their growth. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to create a personalized meal plan that meets the nutritional needs of the mother and the baby.
In conclusion, a balanced diet is crucial for pregnant women to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy and prevent excessive weight gain. By following a well-planned meal plan and avoiding excessive calorie intake, women can ensure that they and their baby are getting all the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.
Essential Nutrients for Pregnant Women
During pregnancy, it is important to gain the right amount of weight. While some weight gain is necessary for a healthy pregnancy, excessive weight gain can lead to various complications. By following a well-balanced diet plan, pregnant women can maintain a healthy weight and prevent excess weight gain.
1. Protein
Protein is an essential nutrient for pregnant women as it helps in the growth and development of the baby. It is important to include protein-rich foods like lean meats, eggs, poultry, fish, beans, and legumes in your diet. These foods provide the necessary amino acids for the baby’s growth.
2. Iron
Iron is important during pregnancy to prevent iron deficiency anemia. Pregnant women should include iron-rich foods like lean red meat, poultry, fish, iron-fortified cereals, and leafy green vegetables in their diet. Iron absorption can be enhanced by consuming vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers.
3. Calcium
Calcium is essential for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Pregnant women should include dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, and calcium-rich foods like leafy green vegetables, tofu, and almonds in their diet.
4. Folate
Folate, or folic acid, is important during pregnancy to prevent birth defects. Pregnant women should consume foods rich in folate, such as leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, fortified cereals, and beans. It is also recommended to take a folic acid supplement to ensure adequate intake.
5. Fiber
Fiber helps to prevent constipation, which is common during pregnancy. Pregnant women should eat foods high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Drinking plenty of water is also important to prevent constipation.
By including these essential nutrients in your diet and following a healthy and balanced meal plan, you can maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy and prevent excessive weight gain.
Choosing the Right Carbohydrates
When it comes to maintaining a healthy pregnancy diet without gaining weight, choosing the right carbohydrates is essential. Carbohydrates are an important part of a balanced diet, providing energy and essential nutrients for both the mother and the baby. However, not all carbohydrates are created equal, and some can lead to unnecessary weight gain during pregnancy.
The Importance of a Balanced Diet
To prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy, it’s important for pregnant women to follow a balanced diet plan. This means choosing the right combination of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to support the growth and development of the baby without adding extra pounds. A balanced diet can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.
When it comes to carbohydrates, it’s important to choose the right types that provide lasting energy and essential nutrients. Foods high in refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, white rice, and sugary snacks, tend to cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to cravings and weight gain. It’s best to avoid or limit these types of carbohydrates to maintain a healthy pregnancy weight.
Smart Carbohydrate Choices for a Healthy Pregnancy
Instead of reaching for refined carbohydrates, pregnant women should opt for complex carbohydrates that are high in fiber and nutrients. These include whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, and oats, as well as fruits, vegetables, and legumes. These foods provide a steady release of energy, helping to maintain blood sugar levels and prevent unwanted weight gain.
Meal planning plays a crucial role in choosing the right carbohydrates during pregnancy. Including a variety of complex carbohydrates in each meal can help pregnant women feel satisfied and prevent overeating. Pairing carbohydrates with lean proteins and healthy fats can further balance blood sugar levels and promote a healthy weight during pregnancy.
| Refined Carbohydrates to Avoid | Smart Carbohydrate Choices |
|---|---|
| White bread | Whole wheat bread |
| White rice | Brown rice |
| Sugary snacks | Fruits |
Overall, choosing the right carbohydrates is essential to maintain a healthy pregnancy weight. By including complex carbohydrates in your meals and avoiding or limiting refined carbohydrates, you can provide the necessary energy and nutrients for both you and your baby without gaining unnecessary pounds.
Including Lean Proteins in Your Diet
During pregnancy, it is important for women to maintain a healthy diet to prevent excessive weight gain. Including lean proteins in your meal plan can help you achieve this goal.
Lean proteins, such as chicken, turkey, fish, beans, and tofu, are low in fat and calories but high in essential nutrients. They provide the necessary building blocks for your baby’s development while helping you feel full and satisfied.
When incorporating lean proteins into your pregnancy diet, it’s important to choose high-quality sources. Opt for grass-fed or organic meats, and wild-caught fish to avoid excess hormones and pesticides. If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, focus on plant-based proteins like legumes, quinoa, and tempeh.
A balanced diet should include lean proteins with each meal. Aim to have a variety of protein sources throughout the day to ensure you’re getting a good mix of nutrients. For example, you could have grilled chicken breast with vegetables for lunch and salmon with quinoa for dinner.
In addition to lean proteins, make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats in your diet. This will provide you and your baby with the necessary vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and eat when you’re hungry. Avoid skipping meals or restricting your calories, as this can lead to nutrient deficiencies and unhealthy weight loss.
By including lean proteins in your pregnancy diet, you can ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need while preventing excessive weight gain. Consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance and recommendations.
Incorporating Healthy Fats
For pregnant women, it is important to maintain a balanced diet and to avoid excessive weight gain during pregnancy. However, this does not mean that you have to deprive yourself of all fats. In fact, incorporating healthy fats into your pregnancy diet can be beneficial for both you and your baby.
Healthy fats, such as those found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil, are an essential part of a well-rounded meal plan. These fats provide important nutrients and help to support your baby’s development. They also help to keep you satisfied and prevent excessive weight gain.
It’s important to note that not all fats are created equal. Saturated and trans fats, found in foods like fried foods and processed snacks, should be limited during pregnancy. These fats can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of certain health issues.
When incorporating healthy fats into your pregnancy diet, it’s important to do so in moderation. While these fats are beneficial, they are also high in calories, so it’s important to consume them in appropriate portions. Adding a tablespoon of avocado to your salad or sprinkling a handful of nuts on top of your yogurt are great ways to incorporate healthy fats into your meals without going overboard.
In summary, incorporating healthy fats into your pregnancy diet is a great way to support your baby’s development and maintain a balanced diet. By choosing the right types of fats and consuming them in moderation, you can prevent excessive weight gain and ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Getting Sufficient Fiber
Women who are pregnant need to maintain a healthy, balanced diet to prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy. One important component of a healthy pregnancy diet is getting sufficient fiber.
Fiber is essential for pregnant women as it helps prevent constipation, a common issue during pregnancy. It also aids in digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, consuming foods high in fiber can help women feel fuller for longer, which can prevent overeating and unnecessary weight gain.
To ensure you are getting enough fiber during pregnancy, it is important to include a variety of fiber-rich foods in your meals. Some excellent sources of fiber include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts. Opting for whole grain breads, cereals, and rice can provide a higher fiber content compared to refined grains.
It is recommended that pregnant women consume around 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day. This can be achieved by including fiber-rich foods throughout the day. For example, add fruits or nuts to your breakfast, incorporate a variety of vegetables in your lunch and dinner, and snack on fiber-rich foods like carrots or hummus.
Remember to drink plenty of water when increasing your fiber intake, as water is necessary for fiber to work effectively in the body. Additionally, gradual increases in fiber intake are recommended to prevent digestive discomfort.
In conclusion, getting sufficient fiber is an important part of a healthy pregnancy diet to maintain a balanced weight. By including fiber-rich foods in your meal plan and staying hydrated, pregnant women can avoid excessive weight gain and support a healthy pregnancy.
Importance of Fruits and Vegetables
Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is essential for pregnant women to maintain a healthy pregnancy diet without gaining excessive weight. Including these nutritious foods in your meals can help prevent the intake of unnecessary calories and provide vital nutrients for both you and your baby.
Benefits of consuming fruits
Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential during pregnancy. They provide a natural sweetness to satisfy cravings for sweets, yet are low in calories. Fruits also contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common issue for many pregnant women.
Additionally, including fruits such as oranges, strawberries, and kiwis can provide you with vitamin C, which promotes a healthy immune system and helps your body absorb iron more effectively. This is particularly important during pregnancy as iron needs increase to support the growth of the baby.
Why vegetables are crucial
Vegetables are a key component of a balanced pregnancy diet. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are essential for a healthy pregnancy. Green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale are particularly beneficial as they are excellent sources of folate, which aids in the development of the baby’s neural tube and helps prevent birth defects.
Incorporating colorful vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes provides a range of essential nutrients, including vitamin A, potassium, and beta-carotene. These nutrients support the growth and development of your baby, promote healthy skin, and assist in maintaining a strong immune system.
To avoid excessive weight gain during pregnancy, it is essential to plan balanced meals that include a variety of fruits and vegetables. By focusing on these nutritious foods and limiting consumption of processed and sugary snacks, you can prevent the intake of extra pounds while ensuring a healthy pregnancy for both you and your baby.
Drinking Plenty of Water
One of the most important tips for pregnant women to maintain a healthy pregnancy diet without gaining excessive weight is to drink plenty of water. Water is essential for the proper functioning of the body and can help prevent dehydration. It is also a great substitute for sugary drinks that can contribute to weight gain.
During pregnancy, it is recommended to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day. This can help to prevent water retention and bloating, which are common during pregnancy. Drinking water can also help to flush out toxins from the body and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.
Tips for drinking enough water:
- Carry a water bottle with you wherever you go to ensure you always have water available.
- Set reminders on your phone or use an app to remind you to drink water throughout the day.
- Drink a glass of water before each meal to help you feel fuller and prevent overeating.
- Flavor your water with slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint to make it more enjoyable to drink.
- Avoid sugary drinks and opt for water instead. If you find it difficult to give up soda or other sweet beverages, try substituting them with flavored water or unsweetened herbal tea.
By drinking plenty of water, pregnant women can maintain a healthy pregnancy diet without gaining extra pounds. It is an essential part of a meal plan during pregnancy and can help women avoid excessive weight gain while still providing hydration and other health benefits.
Limiting Added Sugars
During pregnancy, it’s important for women to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to prevent excessive weight gain. One way to avoid gaining extra pounds is to limit the consumption of added sugars in your meal plan.
Added sugars are empty calories that provide little to no nutritional value. They can increase the risk of gestational diabetes and contribute to excessive weight gain during pregnancy. To ensure a healthy pregnancy diet, it’s important to be mindful of the amount of added sugars you consume.
To limit added sugars in your diet, consider the following tips:
- Avoid sugary beverages, such as soda, fruit juices, and sweetened coffee or tea. Opt for water, unsweetened herbal tea, or infused water instead.
- Read food labels carefully to identify hidden sources of added sugars. Look for ingredients like sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, or dextrose.
- Choose fresh fruits over processed snacks or desserts that contain added sugars. Fruits are naturally sweet and provide essential nutrients and fiber.
- Opt for plain yogurt or Greek yogurt rather than flavored yogurts, which often contain added sugars. You can add your favorite fruits or a drizzle of honey for natural sweetness.
- Limit your intake of sugary condiments like ketchup, barbecue sauce, or sweet salad dressings. Consider making your own dressings or sauces using healthier alternatives.
By being mindful of the added sugars in your diet, you can maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy and provide your body and baby with the essential nutrients they need.
Avoiding Processed Foods
During pregnancy, it is important for women to maintain a healthy diet in order to prevent excessive weight gain. One way to prevent gaining extra pounds is to avoid processed foods. Processed foods are often high in added sugars, unhealthy fats, and sodium, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues.
The Importance of Meal Planning
When a woman is pregnant, it is important to have a meal plan in place to ensure she is getting all the necessary nutrients without consuming processed foods. By planning ahead, she can avoid the temptation of reaching for unhealthy snacks or take-out meals.
Filling Up on Whole Foods
Instead of relying on processed foods, pregnant women should focus on consuming whole foods. Whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains are rich in essential nutrients and are less likely to contribute to weight gain. These foods also provide the necessary energy to support the growing baby.
Avoiding processed foods can also help prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy. By opting for nutritious whole foods, women can maintain a healthy pregnancy diet and ensure the well-being of themselves and their baby.
Including Dairy Products
Pregnant women can maintain a healthy diet and avoid gaining excessive weight by including dairy products in their meal plan. Dairy products are an essential part of a balanced diet, as they provide important nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin D.
Calcium is crucial for the development of the baby’s bones and teeth, as well as for the overall health of the mother. Pregnant women should aim to consume at least three servings of dairy products per day, such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. These can be consumed as part of meals or as snacks throughout the day.
Protein is also important during pregnancy, as it helps with the growth and repair of cells and tissues. It is recommended that pregnant women consume about 75-100 grams of protein per day. Dairy products are a good source of protein, and they can be easily incorporated into meals and snacks.
Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium and plays a role in the development of the baby’s bones and teeth. Dairy products fortified with vitamin D, such as fortified milk, can help ensure that pregnant women meet their daily requirements.
It is important for pregnant women to choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products to prevent excessive weight gain. Full-fat dairy products are higher in calories and can contribute to weight gain. Opting for low-fat or fat-free options can help maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy.
Incorporating dairy products into a pregnant woman’s diet is a simple and effective way to ensure she is getting the nutrients she needs while preventing excessive weight gain. By including dairy products as part of a balanced meal plan, pregnant women can support their own health and the development of their baby while avoiding extra pounds.
Managing Portion Sizes
One of the most important aspects of a healthy pregnancy diet is managing portion sizes. It is crucial for pregnant women to maintain a balanced diet and avoid excessive weight gain. Here are some tips to help you manage your portion sizes and prevent gaining extra pounds during pregnancy:
- Follow a meal plan: Create a meal plan that includes a variety of nutritious foods. This will help you stay organized and ensure you are getting all the necessary nutrients without overeating.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of having three large meals, try eating five to six smaller meals throughout the day. This will not only help manage portion sizes but also prevent excessive hunger and cravings.
- Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat until you are satisfied, not until you are stuffed. It’s important to remember that you don’t need to ‘eat for two’ during pregnancy. Your calorie needs increase, but not as much as you might think.
- Avoid mindless eating: Don’t eat while distracted, such as while watching TV or working on your computer. This can lead to overeating without realizing it. Instead, focus on your meals and enjoy each bite.
- Include a variety of foods: Make sure your meals consist of a balance of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products to meet your nutritional needs.
By managing your portion sizes and following a balanced diet, you can maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy and prevent excessive weight gain. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and recommendations.
Staying Active During Pregnancy
It’s important for pregnant women to avoid gaining excessive weight during pregnancy in order to have a healthy pregnancy and maintain a healthy weight postpartum. Staying active during pregnancy is a great way to prevent excessive weight gain and maintain a healthy pregnancy diet.
Regular exercise during pregnancy can help women maintain a healthy weight and prevent the extra pounds that can come with pregnancy. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any exercise plan during pregnancy to ensure it’s safe for you and your baby.
There are many ways to stay active during pregnancy. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can be done throughout the entire pregnancy. It’s a great way to get moving and stay fit without putting too much stress on your joints.
Prenatal yoga and swimming are also popular choices for pregnant women. These activities help strengthen the body, improve flexibility, and provide relaxation. They are gentle on the joints and can help improve overall well-being during pregnancy.
Additionally, weight training and modified strength exercises can be included in a pregnancy exercise plan, focusing on specific muscle groups and avoiding exercises that put too much strain on the abdomen.
Remember to listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Pregnancy hormones can make joints looser, so it’s important to be mindful of your body’s limits and avoid overexertion.
Staying active during pregnancy not only helps prevent excessive weight gain, but it also can improve mood, reduce pregnancy discomfort, and increase energy levels. Regular exercise can contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable pregnancy experience overall.
Always consult with your healthcare provider to create a safe and individualized exercise plan that suits your needs and abilities during pregnancy.
Consulting Your Healthcare Provider
During pregnancy, it is important for women to maintain a balanced and healthy diet in order to support the growth and development of their baby. However, it is also important to prevent excessive weight gain. Consulting your healthcare provider is an essential step in creating a meal plan that is right for you.
Your healthcare provider can provide personalized advice and recommendations based on your specific needs and circumstances. They can help you to determine how many extra calories you may need during pregnancy and develop a plan to ensure that you are getting the nutrients you and your baby need without gaining excessive weight.
By working with your healthcare provider, you can create a meal plan that includes a variety of healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and dairy products. This balanced diet will provide you with the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy without causing you to gain extra pounds.
It is important to note that every woman’s dietary needs during pregnancy may vary, and consulting your healthcare provider is the best way to determine what is right for you. They can help you to avoid any potential risks associated with excessive weight gain during pregnancy and ensure that you and your baby are healthy.
In conclusion, consulting your healthcare provider is crucial for pregnant women looking to prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy. By working together, you can create a plan that allows you to enjoy a balanced and healthy diet without compromising the health of you and your baby.
Pregnancy Meal Plan to Prevent Excessive Weight Gain
During pregnancy, it is important for women to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to support the growth and development of their baby. However, some pregnant women may be concerned about gaining excessive weight and want to find ways to prevent it.
To avoid gaining extra pounds during pregnancy, it is important to have a well-planned meal plan. A balanced diet that includes all the necessary nutrients will help you maintain a healthy weight while keeping you and your baby nourished.
Here is a pregnancy meal plan that can help prevent excessive weight gain:
1. Eat a variety of foods: Include a wide range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your diet. This will ensure that you are getting all the essential nutrients without consuming excess calories.
2. Focus on nutrient-rich foods: Choose foods that are packed with nutrients rather than empty calories. Opt for foods like spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, lean meats, fish, nuts, seeds, and avocados.
3. Control portion sizes: Pay attention to portion sizes to avoid overeating. Remember that you are eating for two, but this doesn’t mean you need to double your food intake. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues and stop eating when you feel satisfied.
4. Snack smartly: Choose healthy snacks that provide nutritional value. Opt for options like Greek yogurt, fresh fruits, vegetables with hummus, nuts, and whole grain crackers.
5. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Water can also help you feel full and prevent overeating.
6. Avoid sugary and processed foods: Limit your intake of sugary drinks, snacks, and processed foods as they are often high in calories and low in nutrients. They can contribute to weight gain without providing the necessary nutrients for your baby’s development.
7. Practice mindful eating: Pay attention to your eating habits and eat mindfully. Take your time to savor each bite, chew your food well, and eat in a calm environment. This can help you avoid overeating and make healthier food choices.
8. Engage in regular physical activity: Along with a healthy diet, regular exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the safest and most suitable exercises for you.
By following this pregnancy meal plan and incorporating healthy lifestyle habits, you can prevent excessive weight gain while ensuring that you and your baby are getting the necessary nutrients for a healthy pregnancy.