First Trimester Diet - Planning Your Meals During Pregnancy

The first three months of pregnancy need a special first trimester diet. Pregnancy is a time when you need special food. You need to make certain changes in your lifestyle to accommodate healthy food habits. You need a good diet so that you have the energy you need to carry the baby, and to help the baby grow. A good pregnancy diet plan must accommodate the needs of the growing baby while keeping you healthy.

One of the major factors that decide first trimester diet is morning sickness. Morning sickness is the nausea and queasiness you feel at the onset of pregnancy. It generally continues until the end of the trimester. Morning sickness can occur any time of the day, so your diet should provide you with nourishment without being heavy.

Morning Sickness And Healthy Diet

Morning sickness limits your diet options during the first semester. But you still need nourishment for yourself and the baby. So what are your first trimester diet options?

Many days, you may be simply throwing up whatever you eat. This may make it necessary for you to include lighter foods in your diet. Eat smaller meals at regular intervals as these are less heavy. Eat light meals, and eat frequently, as these cause less nausea.

Eat fruits and cereals, as these are lighter and don't cause queasiness. Be sure to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water daily. In the morning, before getting out of bed, eat some crackers. This will help reduce the chance of low blood pressure that often causes nausea.

Drink plenty of water. Water is crucial for you in flushing toxins out of the body. If the morning sickness is so bad that you cannot even keep fluids down, or eat anything, you have to see a doctor immediately.

On Normal Days

Your first trimester diet on days when you are able to eat includes cereals, whole grain products, vegetables, fruits, nuts and dairy products. Lean meats like fish and chicken provide you with the protein you need without causing obesity. Lentils, soy and beans are a good source of proteins as well. Other foods to eat during pregnancy include leafy vegetables that supply iron, calcium and fiber to the body. You also need to talk to your doctor about folic acid pills. If the doctor thinks your iron intake is low, you may be recommended supplements.

Pregnancy is a special time for you, especially the initial stage. Make it safe by paying attention to first trimester diet.