Food & Nutrition For the Planning-To-Be-Mom

While trying to get pregnant, you will obviously want your body to be in as healthy a state as possible. Keeping in mind that pregnancy is not the time to be on any weight loss program, many women choose to shed some unwanted pounds prior to embarking on the road to motherhood. It should be noted that breastfeeding is also not the time to be dieting, although many women naturally lose weight as a result of breastfeeding. While it is best to consult with a doctor about any plans for weight loss at any time, you should certainly consult with your doctor prior to beginning any weight loss initiatives during the planning, pregnancy or breastfeeding stages.

If you are planning to become pregnant, it is a good idea to begin taking your prenatal vitamin daily. It is recommended that women begin supplementing with the appropriate daily dose of folic acid 2-3 months prior to becoming pregnant. It is widely held that the folic acid contained therein is instrumental in reducing the risk of birth defects such as spina bifida. There are a few brands of prenatal vitamins, including generic, available. While they generally contain the same essential ingredients (consult your pharmacist), some women have trouble digesting certain brands- this may be due a difference in the coating of the pill. If you experience some difficulty- consult with your physician who may suggest trying a different brand or to simply take folic acid rater than the whole prenatal vitamin.

If you are taking any other medication or supplements on a regular basis, you should discuss them with your doctor prior to “trying” to ascertain whether or not these are safe during pregnancy. She may suggest switching or eliminating certain medications and supplements prior to actually becoming pregnant.

What to eat, What not to eat.

As stated above, it’s always a good idea to make healthy choices & the Canada Food Guide can help you with that. Generally speaking, you’ll want to:

Make sure that you are getting the appropriate daily intake of the four food groups:
- Fruits & Vegetables
- Protein
- Dairy
- Grains

Think colourful:
- Choose fruits & veggies of assorted colours
- Choose bread that is BROWN (Whole wheat, whole grain)

Drink plenty of WATER

A great idea is to print out your own Canada Food Guide food tracker for pregnant women, available at: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/food-guide-aliment/track-suivi/index-eng.php . Post it on the fridge! This will help you to keep track of your daily food intake.

As far as what not to eat– you may start practicing for pregnancy now, before the “real” thing. Click here for a list 🙂

Best nutrition advice for Mom: Follow the Canada Food Guide