What is a recommended balanced diet to control weight during pregnancy?
It is important to have a balanced diet during pregnancy.
- You must consume adequate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals.
- Carbohydrate-containing foods, e.g., bread, potatoes, rice, pasta and breakfast cereals, should form the main part of any meal.
- Fruit and vegetables provide vitamins and minerals. They also provide fibre that helps in digestion and prevents constipation. Green leafy vegetables provide folic acid and iron.
- Lean meat, fish, poultry and eggs are sources of protein, and lean meat also provides iron.
- Dairy foods, e.g., milk, cheese and yogurt, provide calcium and other nutrients.
- Cut down on sweets and fats
- Sugar and sugary foods, e.g., sweets, biscuits and sugary drinks, provide calories without other nutrients, and can contribute to tooth decay. Cut down on these.
- Cut down on fats and fatty foods – they are very high in calories. Avoid fried foods. Trim the fat off meat. Choose low-fat dairy products.
- Have in moderation…
- Caffeine-containing drinks, e.g., coffee, tea and colas, may affect your baby’s weight. Have them in moderation only.
- Heavy or frequent alcohol intake can cause serious harm, but light or occasional drinking is not harmful.