Nutritional Needs for pregnant women

Also make choices that are low in "empty calories." Empty calories are the calories from added sugars and solid fats in foods like soft drinks, desserts, fried foods, cheese, whole milk, and fatty meats. Look for choices that are low-fat, fat-free, unsweetened, or with no added-sugars. They have fewer or no "empty calories."

Vitamin and mineral supplements cannot replace a healthy diet. Most doctors recommend that pregnant women take a prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement every day in addition to eating a healthy diet. Taking a supplement ensures that you and your baby get enough important nutrients like folic acid and iron. But don't overdo it. Taking extra can be harmful for you and your baby.

Pregnant women and women who may become pregnant should not drink alcohol. Drinks containing alcohol include beer, wine, liquor, mixed drinks, malt beverages, etc. Even moderate drinking during pregnancy can cause behavioral or developmental problems for your baby. Heavy drinking during pregnancy can result in serious problems for your baby, including malformation and mental retardation.

If you are expecting more than one baby, you should discuss what and how much to eat with your doctor or health care provider. Your nutrient and calorie needs are higher than those of women carrying one baby. You should also visit your doctor more often than women who are expecting one baby. Women carrying more than one baby need to be monitored more closely. These babies have a much higher risk of being born prematurely.

Note: If you need assistance to get the foods you need for a healthy diet, click on these links to learn more about USDA'S WIC Program and SNAP.