It may seem obvious but what you eat is an important part of a healthy lifestyle before, during and after pregnancy. In this article, we explore what you should keep in mind to support the changes your body undergoes to prepare for having a baby.

Food gives us energy and provides the building blocks to help with growth and good health. For many mums, or soon to be mums, a change of diet often comes while trying to conceive or when pregnant. But the question is, does your diet need to change that much?

The answer is that it depends. While most woman do not need to alter their eating habits completely, it generally is worthwhile to make minor adjustments to support the changes you are about to experience.

Here are some common eating guidelines to consider. Consult with your doctor, pharmacist, or obstetrician/gynecologist to make sure these are right for your specific health conditions.

• Fruits and Vegetables. These are low calorie and packed with vitamins and minerals. Aim for at least four servings daily which you can achieve if you make them a large portion of your meals.
• Dairy. You can find dairy easily in cheese, milk, and yoghurt. Always check the sugar content as dairy items tend to be high in sugar. At least two servings per day are recommended.
• Whole Grains. These are flavour packed and filling and, there are many types of whole-grain products you can enjoy, such as granola, oatmeal, brown rice, and cereal. With so many options, it can be easy to reach your two servings per day.
• Water. This is absolutely vital before and during pregnancy. Aim for two to three litres of water a day. This can be spread out throughout the day. Your skin and energy levels may thank you.
• Cravings. Pregnancy is infamously a time for cravings. Pickles and chocolate, ice cream and hot dogs, the peculiar mix is endless. The reasons for these cravings are not exactly known but a mix of hormones is the likely cause. A healthy diet is all about balance so if you are eating a mix of the above, some odd-ball cravings are perfectly ok.

A healthy diet will ensure that your body is sufficiently and properly fuelled for pregnancy. Any specific dietary needs should be managed with a professional. Generally speaking, try to make eating healthy for you and your new bub be as natural as ever.

Written by Chelsea D.
Chelsea is a mum of one and pregnant with another. She writes about pregnancy, parenting, and body positivity.