Healthy Habits: Top Meals to Eat While Pregnant

When you get pregnant, it can be a scary thing to think that every move that you make can determine the health of your baby. You should always talk to your doctor to find out if there are any potential risks that might be involved with the pregnancy. Doctors can educate you on necessary vitamins, activities and water intake. Eating is a necessary function in order to survive, but, eating the right way should be advised by a professional. Some pregnancies might require more nutrients than others. There is no set diet that is good for each person, but the foods listed below can be a good start to beginning a healthy diet for you and your baby.

Dishes high in protein - For soon to be moms who don’t have a lot of time, preparing foods beforehand is a good way to make sure that you are eating healthy. Cook beans of any kind, and keep brown rice prepared and ready to go. You can use this concoction for a burrito by adding onions, garlic, salsa and even egg. You can also make enchiladas and add a side salad or guacamole to make bigger lean meals. Cheese and mushrooms are also good additions.

Salad for morning sickness - A salad composed of watermelon, arugula, mint and feta cheese is good to combat morning sickness. The watermelon is a good source of fiber and it is a natural diuretic. The feta cheese has to be pasteurized but the salad is said to be delicious and you can snack on it all day or just have it in the morning. The dressing is composed of olive oil and lime juice and you can even make your own croutons. Substitute ingredients to fit your tastes and make it your own.

Eat super foods - Risotto made with mushrooms and quinoa in the place of the rice can give you the benefits of eating a super food while enjoying a tasty meal. Quinoa is good for protein, fiber and iron which is necessary for a healthy pregnancy. You can add shiitake or any type of mushroom that you like, parmesan cheese, and the recipe calls for wine that can be cooked down, but use your own discretion. This recipe also calls for onions, garlic, and chicken broth, but you can change the ingredients if you are a vegetarian.

Pear and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich - A good way to get your fruits and vegetable into your daily diet is to add them on a sandwich. Cut the English muffin in half, and place pear slices on both halves covered by a slice of cheese. Put the halves under the broiler for two or three minutes. You can add a protein such as bacon or egg, or add peanut butter or almond butter to your sandwich. These are quick and convenient and can be prepared in advance to make cooking easier. If you don’t have a broiler, a toaster oven can work instead.

You can eat pretty much whatever you would like while you are pregnant but foods that contain caffeine and fish are not good options to eat while you are pregnant. They will not lead to a miscarriage, but they can produce toxins that could harm the baby. Lean meats, fruits and vegetables, dairy and whole grains will help you feel good and the baby too. Drink plenty of water, get exercise and plenty of sleep along with a healthy diet.