Eating During Pregnancy: The First Six Months

Understanding your diet and how to change your eating during
pregnancy is one of the most common questions the expectant mother
has. Each trimester has its own set of needs, issues, and difficulties
you must address.In this article, we will discuss the first two
trimesters, or first six months of being pregnant, as these are the
months in which the biggest changes take place. The information and
tips contained in this article should give you a better idea of how to
change your diet once you become pregnant.Understanding First
Trimester NutritionDuring your first trimester, you are likely facing
the issue of morning sickness, which occurs due to major hormonal
changes as your body accommodates itself to pregnancy. The best remedy
for nausea is ginger, sliced up and boiled to make a tea.But during
this time you may also be stepping back your consumption of caffeine
and sugar, and detoxing from these chemicals can make your nausea
worse. During this time, you should step down your consumption slowly
rather than attempt to go off these substances cold turkey, or you
could make yourself quite sick.During this first trimester, you will
also begin taking your prenatal supplements. You'll need to find an
excellent prenatal vitamin with high levels of calcium, folic acid,
and iron. You'll also need to begin taking Omega-3 fatty acids to help
your baby's cognitive development.This first trimester is about
implementing great change, so make what strides you can without
getting stressed out. The most important thing to keep in mind during
these first three months is that every step toward getting healthy is
a step in the right direction.Understanding Second Trimester
NutritionDuring the second trimester, your nausea and morning sickness
will likely abate. This leaves you more open to eating foods of any
kind, but it helps to work up an appetite for protein. Protein
contains the amino acids your baby needs to develop teeth, hair,
bones, and develop fingers, toes, and internal organs. Aim for a
serving of protein at every meal.During this trimester, you may notice
your cravings beginning to set in. Physicians and health experts are
mixed on what actually causes cravings. Some experts feel that they
signify a lack of some nutrient in your diet. Others feel they don't
have a particular significance.During this time, you can indulge your
cravings in moderation. If you feel like your cravings are too bizarre
for normalcy, or if you crave things uncontrollably, mention this to
your physician at your next examination. She can run a dietary panel
to make sure you are getting all the vitamins and minerals you need.
Second trimester nutrition is about finding balance. Now that you have
likely curbed your bad habits, you can kick your health into high gear
by eating the right foods, exercising regularly, and fighting
stress.Avoiding Stress during the First Six MonthsPregnancy can be a
stressful experience, but giving into stress is one of the worst
things you can do for yourself and your baby. Instead, find ways to
cope easily with the stress triggers in your life. Exercise is a great
way to stay in shape and battle stress. Prayer, meditation, and yoga
can also provide huge mental benefits.You should also find another
mom, or group of moms, whom you can relate to and talk to on a regular
basis. Often having the support of others "in the trenches" can help
you work through stress and emerge with a much more happy and healthy
frame of mind. There are Moms' Clubs in your area-check one out and
begin meeting up with other local moms if you feel too alone or
isolated.