Nourishing Pregnancy Diet: Fueling Your Journe

There are plenty of do’s and don’ts on what to eat whilst expecting, and whilst some can be classed as old wives tales, other tips are in place to ensure the health and wellbeing of you and your little one. 

We are all aware of obvious things to avoid such as alcohol, raw meats, and undercooked or raw fish but what about the more conspicuous foods which you may not have thought of? And what should you be increasing in your diet to give your baby the most nutritious start in life? 

Avoid: 

Raw or undercooked eggs – these can contain Salmonella bacteria, if infected with Salmonella, symptoms can include nausea, fever, stomach cramps, vomiting and other nasty side effects 

Caffeine – whilst we all love a cup of coffee to help us get started in the morning, it is advised you limit your caffeine intake whilst pregnant as it can easily absorb into the placenta and cause potential implications at birth 

Unwashed produce – when fruit or veg hasn’t been washed it can be contaminated with pesticides and other bacteria, ensure to wash all produce thoroughly before cooking 

Soft cheeses – any soft cheese including mozzarella and goat’s cheese amongst others, although delicious, can be harmful to your insides and your baby 

Learn to Love: 

Sweet potato – not only versatile for recipes, but they are also packed with vitamin A, essential for your baby’s growth and development 

Protein – lean meats such as chicken, turkey and pork are great for adding protein into your diet, you can also get your protein fix from dairy products such as cheese, yoghurts and milk which also provide lots of calcium 

Berries – full of antioxidants and natural goodness, a handful of berries in desserts, breakfast and brunch can add that extra boost to your meal

Dark leafy greens – whilst you may not be thrilled by the idea of a salad, try and incorporate greens such as kale, spinach or broccoli into your dishes to reap a range of health benefits