Pregnancy is a critical period for the baby’s growth, and proper nutrition is not only related to maternal health but also directly affects the future development of the child. Here are some recommended foods that help promote fetal brain development and make the baby smarter:
During pregnancy, peanuts are a good choice. They are rich in over ten essential amino acids for the human body, especially lysine, which can enhance children’s intelligence; glutamic acid and aspartic acid can promote cell development, slow down brain function decline, and enhance memory. Moderate consumption of peanuts is beneficial for the baby’s neural development.
Walnuts are equally important, containing rich trace elements, minerals, and vitamins such as calcium, phosphorus, iron, carotene, riboflavin, and especially lysine, which are crucial for fetal brain development. Regular consumption of walnuts by pregnant women can help give birth to intelligent babies.
Eggs are a nutritious treasure easily accessible in daily life, and the acetylcholine produced after the breakdown of lecithin in the egg yolk is very beneficial for improving memory and protecting the brain. It is recommended that pregnant women consume 1 to 2 eggs daily to support the baby’s brain growth.
Spinach, an economical vegetable, is rich in vitamin A, C, B1, B2, and chlorophyll, known as the “brain-healthy vegetable,” which is very helpful in promoting brain cell metabolism and enhancing intelligence. Pregnant women should consume more spinach to assist in the baby’s brain development.
Seafish is a high-quality source of DHA, which is essential for brain cell division, axon and dendrite growth, hence known as the “brain’s gold.” Pregnant women can supplement DHA by consuming small fish such as sardines and mackerel but should be mindful of selection to avoid heavy metal contamination risks and reduce intake of fish heads, skin, and internal organs.
Pregnancy milk powder, as a specially formulated beverage, is supplemented with essential nutrients for pregnancy such as folic acid, iron, calcium, and DHA, which helps in the normal development of the fetal brain and nervous system. It is recommended for pregnant women to drink it consistently during pregnancy to compensate for the nutritional deficiencies in their daily diet.
Of course, maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy is essential, avoiding foods that may affect the baby’s brain development such as monosodium glutamate, pickles, preserved meat, alcohol, and others to prevent adverse consequences.
Additionally, there are strict food restrictions for pregnant women, such as crabs, soft-shelled turtles, Job’s tears, Chinese spinach, etc., which may have effects on blood circulation, abortion, or induce uterine contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage. Canned foods are not recommended for excessive consumption by pregnant women due to the presence of additives.
By scientifically balancing the diet, pregnant women can not only lay a solid foundation for their health but also create the most favorable environment for the baby’s growth.
