The 6 Rules of Pregnancy Nutrition

Get the Right Vitamins

It is important to take your prenatal vitamins. Speak with your healthcare provider to find out what qualities will best suit you in a prenatal.

Be Mindful of Minerals

There's a lot of bone-making going on in your baby. If you don't take enough calcium in, your baby will sift what he needs first, leaving what little may be left for you. If your diet includes dairy products, you're fine. Zinc and other minerals are important, but these and the protein, fat, and sugars you need should come naturally from a healthy diet.

Take Folic Acid

Of all of the vitamins championed in pregnancy, folic acid ("folate," a B vitamin) has particular importance in your baby's neurological development. Make sure your prenatal vitamin gives you what you need (400 mcg), but keep in mind leafy green vegetables, asparagus, whole grains, liver, beans, and peas are also good sources.

Pump Iron!

There are changes in your blood during pregnancy, and iron is essential in the goings-on. Iron is necessary for red blood cell production. Therefore, extra iron is needed in your diet. Again, your prenatal vitamins should satisfy this extra need, but things like liver, spinach, and green leafy vegetables are good sources of iron, too. Oh, yes, and sardines!