Decoding The Food Guide Pyramid For Pregnant Women

Decoding The Food Guide Pyramid For Pregnant Women

• Calorie Requirement:

The food guide pyramid suggests no additional calorie need for the first trimester. The second trimester demands an extra 350 calories per day. The need increases to 500 calories per day for the last trimester.

• Weight Gain

The pregnancy weight gain depends on the prepregnancy weight. Gradual weight gain is normal with an increase in calorie intake.

• Pregnancy Nutrition Food

The food pyramid divides the nutrient intake based on source and calorific value. 6–11 small servings on whole grain carbohydrate are recommended per day.

Iron foods and vitamin sources include intake of 3–4 servings of vegetables and 1–2 fruit servings.

Protein intake requires 2–3 servings of low-fat dairy products and 1–2 servings of lean meat, fish, poultry, and pulses. Intake of fatty food, refined and sugary foods should be minimal.

• Moderate Exercise

Pregnancy nutrition is incomplete without mild physical activity. 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day is recommended for overall health unless contraindicated by a physician.

Quality pregnancy nutrition and a balanced lifestyle can assist in a rewarding pregnancy. Minimizing stress, avoiding processed food and embracing healthy eating habit is the key to a healthy pregnancy.