Foods to be eaten during the first trimester

Ideally, the status of nutrition should be assessed prior to the conception. This will allow necessary dietary changes as well.  Healthy habits occur prior to pregnancy. Check-ups are necessary including the immunization status, mineral supplementation and vitamin supplementation. This also includes previous pregnancies, general health, weight, medications, medical conditions, alcohol, drug use and tobacco. Various ways will be suggested by the doctor for maximizing the chances for a healthy pregnancy.  Formation of major organs is seen during the first trimester. Thus, a healthy environment is seen right from the start. This is very critical for the development of the baby. Because the development of the organs is very vital, most of them occur very immediately. Thus, a good schedule of food during first trimester of pregnancy is very essential. A diet must contain 0.4 to 0.8 mg of folic acid. A balanced diet must be followed in the beginning.

• Calories are a very important factor in the determination of birth weight. Many women don’t need to increase their intake of calories till the second trimester. However, later they have to consume 340 extra calories per day. 450 extra calories are typically needed during the third trimester.
• The recommendation of protein is 1.1g/kg/d. this is slightly higher than that which is found in the non pregnant women.
• The recommendation of carbohydrates is 175g/d.
• There is a positive effect on the intake of polyunsaturated fats on neurodevelopment. There are adverse effects of trans-fatty acids on the fetal development.
• One should make sure that prenatal vitamins is consumed. Many a times, food during first trimester of pregnancy contains folic acid. For a breakdown of micro-nutrients, a great role is played in pregnancy. One should see whether vitamins are playing a great role in the supplementation of pregnancy
• Mercury is found in certain fish. Pregnant women should avoid eating swordfish, shark and other fish that are high in mercury. Salmon, tuna and shrimp should also be avoided.
• The doctors recommend 200 mg or less caffeine per day. There is a variation in the amount of caffeine among the brands of coffee, tea, chocolate and soda. Coffee has approximately 100 to 250 mg. soda. The calories in chocolate can vary according to 25mg/serving.
• Artificial sweeteners should be avoided. They play a great role in increasing the risk for birth defects.
• One must not eat undercooked meat, raw meat, eggs or fish. Sushi is an exception to this.

Thus, one must eat a good food during first trimester of pregnancy for a successful pregnancy.