Eat Wisely for You and Your Baby

Your baby depends on you. Eating right, before and during pregnancy, can mean:

* fewer complications during pregnancy and delivery;

* less chance of birth defects;

* less chance of a premature baby;

* a stronger, healthier baby at birth; and

* a stronger, healthier you.

From the instant of conception, your baby depends on the food you eat to supply energy, protein, vitamins, calcium, iron, and other minerals. Your own body has increased needs for many nutrients during this period, too. Paying special attention to getting a good diet will pay off. Both you and your baby will be healthier.

Good nutrition is important even before you know you are pregnant. In the first month after conception the baby has already begun to form all the organs and body parts. In the early months the baby is developing its physical shape. In the late months the baby is growing longer and heavier. So, from the moment of conception through birth, nutrition is vital.

Your own health depends on your diet, too. While you are supplying nutrients for your baby, your own body continues to need all the nutrients just as before. In fact, during pregnancy you need more of many nutrients just for yourself. Your body is storing protein and calories that will be needed during nursing.

If you are younger than 16, you are probably still growing so you have extra needs. Eating a healthful diet is one of the best things you can do for the baby and for yourself. Following fad diets during this time can be risky.

WHAT SHOULD I EAT?

Nutrition experts suggest that meals and snacks be planned to include a variety of foods from these general groups:

* Bread, cereal, rice, and pasta

* Vegetable

* Fruit

* Milk, yogurt, and cheese

* Meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs, and nuts

Another category often mentioned is fats, oils, and sweets. These foods provide mostly calories, with very few nutrients and should be eaten only in limited amounts.