Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative journey for every woman. At Aparna Hospitals, we believe that proper nutrition is the foundation of a healthy pregnancy. As a gynecologist, I often tell my patients that what you eat doesn’t just impact your health—it directly affects the growth and development of your baby.
Here’s a practical and doctor-approved guide on what foods pregnant women should include and avoid in their daily routine.
✅ What to Include in Your Pregnancy Diet
1. Folic Acid-Rich Foods
Folic acid is essential for the baby’s brain and spine development, especially in the first trimester.
🟢 Eat: Spinach, oranges, broccoli, lentils, fortified cereals.
2. Iron-Rich Foods
Iron helps produce extra blood (hemoglobin) for mother and baby and prevents anemia.
🟢 Eat: Leafy greens, beetroot, dates, eggs, lean red meat, and legumes.
3. Calcium and Vitamin D
These nutrients help in the development of strong bones and teeth for your baby.
🟢 Eat: Milk, curd, paneer, almonds, ragi, and fortified orange juice.
4. Protein
Protein is vital for the growth of the baby’s tissues and organs.
🟢 Eat: Eggs, dal, chickpeas, tofu, lean meats, and dairy products.
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Good fats support your baby’s brain development.
🟢 Eat: Walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and cooked fish like salmon (2 times a week).
6. Hydration
Always stay hydrated—water helps in digestion, nutrient absorption, and removing toxins.
💧 Aim for 8–10 glasses of water a day.
🚫 What to Avoid During Pregnancy
- Raw or Undercooked Foods: Avoid sushi, raw eggs, and undercooked meats.
- High-Mercury Fish: Say no to shark, swordfish, and king mackerel.
- Caffeine: Limit coffee or tea to less than 200 mg/day.
- Unpasteurized Milk or Cheese: These can carry harmful bacteria.
- Excess Sugar and Junk Food: Can lead to unnecessary weight gain and gestational diabetes.
👩⚕️ Tips from Dr. Madhavi
- Eat small, frequent meals to manage morning sickness and acidity.
- Don’t skip meals—especially breakfast.
- Prenatal vitamins should be taken as prescribed.
- Consult your gynecologist regularly for weight tracking and nutritional advice.
🏥 Expert Care at Aparna Hospitals
At Aparna Hospitals, we prioritize maternal and fetal health through holistic care and personalized diet planning. If you’re pregnant or planning to conceive, consult with us for tailored guidance. Your health is our mission.
📍Visit us: Plot No:116, Navodaya Colony, Kanchi Gachibowli Rd, Nallagandla, Hyderabad, Telangana
📞 Call us: +91 98858 86170
🌐 www.aparnahospitals.com
