Eating a variety of foods helps ensure you are getting the best quality and most nutritious foods. Consider increasing the amount of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, calcium and vitamin D items you consume. Eat foods you enjoy! If you are pregnant and interested in learning more, be sure to talk with a healthcare provider including a registered dietitian nutritionist.¹ You can also check out this source on how to plan a healthy diet during breastfeeding.² 

What and How Much Should I Eat?

Food Safety¹⁵

Pregnancy can affect your immune system which can make it more difficult for you to fight off different infections.  Here are some tips:

• Cook meat, seafood, eggs and poultry thoroughly and heat hot dogs and deli meat to steaming 
• Wash your hands and clean your surfaces and cutting boards and utensils
• Avoid unpasteurized juices, ciders, and dairy products (CDC)

Other Things to Consider

• Herbal products for medical or health benefits have not been extensively studied in pregnancy, but some may be safe.¹⁶
  • Always consult your healthcare provider. 
• More than 150 mg of caffeine may increase the risk of miscarriage, but more research is needed. This is the amount in ~16 oz of regular coffee.¹⁷
• A desire to consume non-food items is a sign of  a condition called Pica.
  • Pregnant women with pica report feeling compelled to consume things like coffee grounds or laundry products.¹⁸    
  • Let your doctor know if you are having cravings for non-food items.
• Alcohol crosses the placenta to the baby.¹⁹
  • There is no safe amount of alcohol during pregnancy.
• Artificial sweeteners have not been sufficiently studied for safety in pregnancy.²⁰
• High mercury fish, such as tilefish, swordfish, shark, and king mackerel should be avoided as high levels of mercury can damage a baby’s nervous system.²¹

Pregnancy Related Changes

Food Access

Women of childbearing age, whether they are pregnant and/or postpartum, should have access to affordable and nutritious food.

• The government has developed programs to give cash and benefits to help low income families who are at risk of poor nutrition so they can purchase food.
  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP²⁵ 
  • Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, Children – WIC²⁶
  • Many communities have local food banks/pantries.

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Healthy Eating During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
• Lactation Q&A

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

References