During pregnancy, expectant mothers need to pay attention to balanced diet, ensuring intake of diverse nutrients, as this directly affects the healthy growth of the fetus. When choosing food, it is important to distinguish what is beneficial for pregnant women and what should be avoided.
Fruits are good companions during pregnancy. For example, the nutrients found in tomatoes can help pregnant women maintain good skin quality and are beneficial for the development of the fetal skin; the abundant vitamin C in kiwi can prevent future freckles in babies; lemons not only prevent colds but also contain zinc, iodine, iron, and other minerals crucial for fetal growth.
Vegetables are equally essential. Carrots can help maintain skin moisture, while broccoli, due to its high content of vitamins A and C, can enhance skin elasticity and provide protection.
Dairy and soy products are also recommended during pregnancy. Milk not only promotes sleep but also contributes to skin care, reducing wrinkles; the rich vitamin E in soy products can prevent skin pigmentation and improve skin condition.
For comprehensive fetal development, pregnant women should also consume fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, cereals, peanuts, and a moderate amount of eggs, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Adequate sunlight exposure can help the body produce vitamin D, promoting fetal bone growth. Paying attention to the supplement of trace elements such as zinc, magnesium, iodine, and copper is also crucial as they are widely present in different food categories.
However, there are certain dietary restrictions during pregnancy. A high-fat diet may increase the risk of fetal cancer and raise the mother’s risk of breast cancer; a high-protein diet may affect the digestion of pregnant women and cause discomfort; a high-sugar diet may be associated with the risk of macrosomia and congenital deformities; excessive calcium supplementation may lead to fetal hypercalcemia, affecting normal development.
Therefore, dietary balance should be emphasized during pregnancy, rationalizing the combination of various foods to meet nutritional needs and avoid potential risks, safeguarding the health of both mother and child.
