rediff.com
News APP

NewsApp (Free)

Read news as it happens
Download NewsApp

Available on  gplay

Rediff.com  » Getahead » 12 SUPERFOODS for pregnancy!
This article was first published 12 years ago

12 SUPERFOODS for pregnancy!

Last updated on: May 16, 2012 19:43 IST

Image: Leafy greens
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com Courtesy Gud2Eat.com
If you're expecting a visit from the stork, make sure to stock up on these foods.

In the following pages, we bring you the best dietary options for both mother-to-be and baby.

Leafy greens

Broccoli, spinach and other leafy greens are necessary for pregnant and lactating women, as they provide vitamins and minerals that are vital to both mother and baby's immune system.

Also read: 14 power foods to keep you cool this summer

Tags: Broccoli

Beans

Image: Beans
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Beans are rich in fibre, calcium, protein, niacin and thiamine, all of which are important to pregnant women and a growing foetus.

Tags:

Nuts and seeds

Image: Nuts and seeds
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Nuts and seeds are rich in minerals, protein, fibre and sometimes omega 3 fatty acids, which support a healthy development of the brain and nervous system of babies.

Tags:

Milk

Image: Milk
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

It is an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus and Vitamin D -- bone-building nutrients for both mother and the child. Milk also packs proteins and vitamins A and B.

Tags:

Fatty fish

Image: Fatty fish
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Fatty fish like salmon, tuna and halibut are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which aid in the development of the brain and eyes of the baby.

Tags:

Berries

Image: Berries
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Berries are packed with complex carbohydrates, Vitamin C, folate, potassium, fibre and fluid, all beneficial and essential for a growing baby.

Tags: Vitamin C

Apricots

Image: Apricots
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

A handy snack giving a natural energy boost, apricots are full of iron and are a good source of folate, calcium and magnesium. They are also rich in fibre.

Tags:

Watermelon

Image: Watermelon
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Watermelon delivers delicious benefits to pregnant women -- it eases heartburn, reduces swelling and its high water content and fruit sugars alleviate morning sickness.

Tags:

Whole grains

Image: Whole grains
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Wholegrains (brown rice, pasta, bread, oats) are rich in fibre, providing sustained energy and helping stabilise blood sugar levels. Wholegrain foods are also full of iron, zinc and B vitamins.

Tags:

Eggs

Image: Eggs
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Eggs supply high-quality protein that is required by your growing baby to thrive. They also contain Vitamin B12, needed for building red blood cells and a healthy nervous system.

Tags: B12

Chicken

Image: Chicken
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Lean chicken cuts offer moms a good, low-fat source of much-needed protein. Proteins are building blocks for your baby.

Tags:

Soy foods

Image: Soy foods
Photographs: Courtesy Gud2Eat.com

Soy products are a natural source of protein and iron and they're very versatile in cooking. Soy beans are great meat substitutes for vegetarians.

Tags: