Dealing with First Time Pregnancy
May 02, 2007
What kind of a diet should an expectant mother follow?
A good diet helps to tone up the body and make muscles healthy, which increases the comfort level during labour and delivery process. While one must eat a balanced diet all through the nine months, the first few weeks are important for development of the baby's organs.
By week four the little heart starts beating, tiny fingers and toes are ready by eight weeks and all vital organs are in place by week 12. So, a complete human being, although only an inch long, is ready in 12 weeks.
A wholesome meal with a good mix of different food types is advisable for organ development. For example, carbohydrates such as breads, rice and rotis help in the development of the baby's body parts. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Milk, cheese and yoghurt cement the nervous system, bones and teeth with calcium. Proteins in the form of beans, dal, soya, rajma or chicken, fish and eggs aid cell development.
Avoid fried foods and fats as far as possible. Considered auspicious, ghee ladoos are an absolute no-no! The total oil requirements are two tablespoons a day. Finally, eight to ten glasses of water should be taken a day.
While eating out, care should be taken to eat foods that are cooked well. Avoid raw food.
A good diet helps to tone up the body and make muscles healthy, which increases the comfort level during labour and delivery process. While one must eat a balanced diet all through the nine months, the first few weeks are important for development of the baby's organs.
By week four the little heart starts beating, tiny fingers and toes are ready by eight weeks and all vital organs are in place by week 12. So, a complete human being, although only an inch long, is ready in 12 weeks.
Small meals every two hours are advised as this helps maintain the blood sugar level of the baby. A portion of fruit, a glass of juice or some dry fruits will do.
A wholesome meal with a good mix of different food types is advisable for organ development. For example, carbohydrates such as breads, rice and rotis help in the development of the baby's body parts. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Milk, cheese and yoghurt cement the nervous system, bones and teeth with calcium. Proteins in the form of beans, dal, soya, rajma or chicken, fish and eggs aid cell development.
Avoid fried foods and fats as far as possible. Considered auspicious, ghee ladoos are an absolute no-no! The total oil requirements are two tablespoons a day. Finally, eight to ten glasses of water should be taken a day.
While eating out, care should be taken to eat foods that are cooked well. Avoid raw food.
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