Eating for two?

The old story about "eating for two" when pregnant is somewhat outdated nowadays...  It is probably better to think of it as "eating twice as good".  The calorific intake requirements vary according to many factors, including the mother's weight, height, age, as well as activity levels.  In general, the increase in calories required for a pregnant woman is around 25% in the second trimester and more again in the third trimester and during breastfeeding.    This means that the concentration should be on the quality of food intake, with an increase in nutritional content, trace elements and vitamins, being preferred over simple calorific value or quantity.

NOTE:  If a woman is having any problems with keeping weight up or down during pregnancy, then she should create a nutritional plan in conjunction with her qualified  medical practitioner.

IN THIS CHAPTER:  

1. Folic Acid - A detailed look at this B vitamin that is vital for a healthy pregnancy along with a detailed listing of food sources rich in this substance.

2a. Minerals and Trace Elements (Calcium & Magnesium) - A roundup of minerals and trace elements that play an important role in a pregnancy.

2b. Minerals and Trace Elements (Iron, Manganese & Zinc) - A roundup of minerals and trace elements that play an important role in a pregnancy.

3. Vitamins - A guide to how various vitamins are used during a pregnancy with a guide to which foods are good sources of these vitamins.

4. Nutrients - An overview of proteins, carbohydrates and fats, explaining the role of each and which foods they can be found in.

5. Foods to avoid - What should be avoided when pregnant.  An explanation of risky things to take into the body and share with baby during pregnancy.