Planning a Healthy, Well-Balanced Diet

Planning a healthy, well-balanced diet to meet your pregnancy needs does not have to be difficult or time-consuming. Following is a Food Groups Guide for Pregnancy.

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FOOD GROUPS GUIDE FOR PREGNANCY

• Milk and dairy = 3 to 4 servings per day
• Meat, poultry, fish, dried beans, eggs, and nuts = 2 to 3 servings per day
• Bread, cereal, rice, and pasta = 6 to 11 servings per day
• Vegetables = 3 to 5 servings per day
• Fruits = 2 to 4 servings per day

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It is helpful to understand some of the most important nutrients and their role in your baby's development. The Extra Daily Nutrient Allowances for Pregnancy table below illustrates some of the extra nutrients pregnant women need. Pregnant teens should consult a dietitian to determine the best intakes for their growing bodies and developing babies. Other conditions during pregnancy, such as multiples and diabetes, may also require special nutrient allowances. Prenatal vitamins act as a safety net to your diet during pregnancy, and they should be taken as directed by your doctor. Keep in mind that they do not replace real food. During the first trimester, morning sickness can be exacerbated by certain prenatal vitamins. If you suspect this, try taking your vitamin with food, before bedtime, or ask your doctor to switch vitamin brands. If you stop taking your vitamin for any reason, you should continue to take a folic acid supplement throughout pregnancy.

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