Nutrition During Pregnancy: What Expecting Mothers Need to Know
Proper nutrition during pregnancy is essential for your health and your baby's development.
Pregnant women need additional calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals to support fetal growth,
prepare for labor, and establish breastfeeding. Nourva helps you track these essential nutrients
throughout your prenatal journey.
Key Nutrients for Pregnant Women
Folate (also called folic acid) is crucial during early pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects.
Pregnant women should consume 400-800 micrograms daily from fortified foods and supplements.
Iron supports your increased blood volume and prevents anemia. Pregnancy iron needs increase to
27 milligrams per day. Combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C for better absorption.
Calcium builds your baby's bones and teeth while protecting your own bone density.
Aim for 1000 milligrams daily from dairy, fortified plant milks, leafy greens, and supplements.
DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) supports baby's brain and eye development. Pregnant women should
consume 200-300 milligrams daily from fatty fish (salmon, sardines) or algae-based supplements.
Protein needs increase during pregnancy to support fetal tissue growth and maternal changes.
Aim for 60-100 grams daily from lean meats, eggs, beans, nuts, and dairy.
Nutrition for Each Trimester
Your nutritional needs change as pregnancy progresses. During the first trimester,
focus on folate, managing morning sickness, and establishing healthy eating patterns.
The second trimester requires additional calories (about 300-350 extra per day) and
increased protein for rapid fetal growth. In the third trimester, continue increased
calorie intake (450 extra per day) while managing heartburn and preparing for breastfeeding.
Postpartum and Breastfeeding Nutrition
After delivery, your nutritional needs remain elevated, especially if breastfeeding.
Nursing mothers need an additional 500 calories daily plus increased protein, calcium, and fluids
to support milk production and postpartum recovery. Nourva adjusts your nutrition targets
automatically when you transition to postpartum mode.
Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy
Certain foods carry risks during pregnancy. Avoid soft cheeses (unless pasteurized),
deli meats (unless heated), raw fish and sushi, undercooked eggs, unpasteurized juices,
and high-mercury fish like shark and swordfish. Nourva's food safety checker helps you
identify risky foods when logging meals.