Whether you are planning a pregnancy, are pregnant or post-birth, nutrition plays a critical role during this exciting time.  What you eat before, during or after your pregnancy can impact the health of you and your child for years to come.  Brain and eyesight development, growth and immunity in baby are all impacted by nutrition.  Nutrition issues for mom include weight gain/loss, anemia, post-partum depression, breastfeeding and the parent/child feeding relationship.  Your partner may also benefit from nutritional guidance.  In addition to improving his/her nutrition, this may also help them feel more “part of the tem”. 

EN offers individualized diet evaluation and meal planning, whether you are pre or post natal.

Here are some ideas for each trimester

Trimester #1:

The first trimester is characterized by the smallest weight gains, however, nutrition is vital here.  Folic acid is the key nutrient during this phase.  Make sure you are taking at least 0.4 mg of folic acid via a supplement in order to prevent neural tube defects.  For more ideas and meal plans for trimester #1, please visit our resource section.

Trimester #2:

The second trimester is characterized by growth of the fetus.  Your need for iron increases substantially during this time.  Iron is needed for your expanding blood supply.  For more ideas of how to incorporate iron in to your diet, and more ideas on nutrition for trimester #2, please visit our resource section.

Trimester #3:

The 3rd trimester is characterized by great weight gain.  This is when the fetus does the most growing.  Essential fatty acids are a key nutrient during this phase.  A baby’s ability to absorb these precious fatty acids is greatest here as well as after birth when breastfeeding.  Essential fatty acids play a role in eyesight development and immunity, along with brain development.  For more information on how to get enough essential fatty acids ands other important nutrients during the 3rd trimester, please visit our resource section.

*for more ideas and meal plans, please visit our resource section.