The 6 FAQs Women Ask About Pregnancy Nutrition

There are a lot of questions that arise about pregnancy nutrition, and most of them focus around what types of foods are safe for eating and in what amounts. Following are the 6 most frequently asked questions concerning pregnancy nutrition.

Throughout the next few months, try to implement these changes as you can without adding too much stress to your lifestyle. Remember that every step towards better health is a step in the right direction for you and your baby.

Q. How much caffeine may I have while I am pregnant?

A. Contrary to popular belief, you may have caffeine in strict amounts while pregnant. Experts agree that you can have as much as 150mg per day, which is the equivalent of one cup of coffee, or two cups of black tea.

If you’ve a heavy caffeine habit, try tapering off your use rather than quitting all at once. Detoxing will make you quite sick, and you do not need the added problem during pregnancy.

Q. Is it OK to eat sweets during pregnancy? What about artificial sweeteners?

A. Remember, everything in moderation. Will the occasional cake cause harm? No. But consuming sugar each day will cause weight gain and will make your baby grow larger, casuing a difficult delivery.

Artificial sugars, made of questionable chemicals, need to be avoided completely during pregnancy. Alternatively, try satisfying your sweet tooth with all-natural sweeteners such as stevia, raw honey, xylitol, and agave syrup, which don’t pack the caloric punch of sugar.

Q. Can I eat shrimp while pregnant?

A. Yes, however again, moderation is key. Shrimp and other types of fish low in mercury (such as salmon, sardines, anchovies, crab and lobster) may be enjoyed in limited amounts. Opt for two 6oz servings each week and you should be ok.

Q. What’s the best way to combat morning sickness?

A. Morning sickness is caused by the hormonal shift your body is making to accommodate your new baby, and it can be quite debilitating. Ginger is one of the best remedies for the nausea associated with morning sickness, but don’t drink ginger ale, that is full of sugar and artificial sweeteners. Instead, slice ginger and boil it to make a tea, and sweeten with the all-natural sweetener of your choice. Sip slowly throughout the day to ease your stomach.

Q. How much weight is it OK to gain?

A. Most experts agree that you need to gain weight while you’re pregnant, but you should limit the gain to maintain the best health for your baby and yourself. Limiting your weight gain can also make it simpler for you to return to your pre-baby weight.

You need to limit your gain to between 20 and 30 lbs during your entire pregnancy. Most women gain about 10 pounds during the second trimester, when the baby grows quickly.

Q. What forms of exercise are safe during pregnancy?

A. Regular exercise is essential to combating many of the common problems of pregnancy, like water retention, aches and pains, and excessive weight gain.

Exercise can also help keep you toned and in shape for labor. But you should opt for gentler forms of exercise rather than high-impact aerobics.

In fact, avoid any exercise that can cause you to fall easily, like tennis, jogging, or horseback riding. Try yoga, water aerobics, swimming, and walking for the safest, gentlest forms of exercise during pregnancy.