Top 10 Superfoods for Pregnancy
This post is going to give you the top 10 superfoods for pregnancy.
If you do not follow me on instagram you would not know that I am pregnant but I am about 15 weeks! I will link the youtube video of me announcing the news and some of the symptoms I have been experiencing. It is difficult to eat foods for a healthy pregnancy during the first trimester because of the nausea and fatigue.
Now that I am in the second trimester it is important to me to start eating healthy foods that are good for me and the baby. Here are the top 10 superfoods for pregnancy.
Top 10 Superfoods for Pregnancy:
Salmon
Salmon is a delicious source of protein that has many benefits during pregnancy. Some fish are not recommended during pregnancy but since salmon is pretty low in mercury it is a safe option. Salmon and other low mercury fish are great for helping a baby’s brain grow properly. It is a great source for omega 3 fatty acids which help the developing fetus and pregnancy. Other benefits of consuming salmon twice a week are that it helps with neurodevelopment, reduces chances of preterm labor, and lowers the risk for hypertension during pregnancy.
Eggs
It is perfectly safe to have eggs during pregnancy as long as they are pasteurized or fully cooked. Eggs are high in protein and have 13 different minerals and vitamins, antioxidants, omega-3s, and high levels of choline. Choline is important during pregnancy for brain and spinal cord development.
Dark Leafy Greens
Dark leafy greens like spinach and kale are full of vitamins and minerals that are essential for anyone but especially during pregnancy. They contain folate which is a vitamin that helps to prevent birth defects in newborns. Other vitamins that dark leafy greens include are vitamins A, C, K and E. I love eating greens because they are packed with fiber which is very useful during pregnancy because pregnancy constipation is real!
Sweet Potatoes
I am not a huge fan of sweet potatoes but have been trying to incorporate them into my diet at least once a week. If you have any suggestions on how to make them let me know! One reason I try to have them once a week is because they are high in beta carotene which is a plant compound that is converted into vitamin A. This vitamin is very important for the development of the baby. Sweet potatoes are also packed with fiber.
Avocados
Avocados are one of my favorite fruits and they are so easy to incorporate into meals. I add avocado to salads, tacos, smoothies, eggs, and on toast. Avocados are high in monounsaturated fatty acids, folate, and potassium. Healthy fats help with a baby’s brain, skin, and tissues.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are an essential carbohydrate and a main source of energy for your body. Not only do grains give your body energy but they also give your placenta energy in order to grow. Whole grains are a much healthier alternative to refined or enriched grains because they have minerals, vitamins and fiber. Fiber is extremely important when pregnant because this is when you are more likely to get constipated. They are a good source for vitamin B that helps the baby grow.
Greek Yogurt
I love greek yogurt because it has twice the amount of protein than regular yogurt. Greek yogurt is also packed with probiotics that help to keep your digestive system working correctly. During pregnancy your immune system is not as strong but probiotics help to strengthen your immunity. Greek yogurt also contains calcium which keeps your bones strong but also helps your baby’s bones.
Lean Meat
Protein contains amino acids that are the building blocks for every cell not just in your body but the baby’s body as well. Foods that are high in protein also help to stabilize your blood sugar due to the fact that they help to satisfy hunger. Protein is high in iron which helps with development of the baby’s brain. Iron also helps to develop red blood cells for the baby and support yours as well.
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