Women preparing for conception need to consume a nutritious diet for their own health and that of their baby. According to Dr. Chanchal Sharma, during each trimester of pregnancy, one should consume foods rich in folic acid, calcium, protein, and iron. Avoid junk food, alcohol, cigarettes, and undercooked food, and drink plenty of water.
Diet During Pregnancy: A proper diet is extremely important for women preparing for conception, as it affects not only their health but also the baby's development. According to Dr. Chanchal Sharma, Director and Gynecologist at Asha Ayurveda, during the first trimester, one should consume foods rich in folic acid; in the second trimester, calcium and protein; and in the third trimester, iron and protein. Women should avoid junk food, undercooked food, alcohol, cigarettes, and excessive tea-coffee, and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
What to Eat in the First Trimester
The initial three months of pregnancy, i.e., the first trimester, are considered very sensitive for a woman. During this period, a diet rich in folic acid is extremely essential as it aids in the proper development of the baby's neural tube. According to Dr. Chanchal Sharma, at this time, spinach, broccoli, green vegetables, pomegranate, banana, milk, yogurt, and eggs should be included in the diet. Adequate water intake is also important. During this period, one should consume light and nutritious food and avoid heavy or spicy items.
Focus on Diet in the Second Trimester
From the fourth to the sixth month of pregnancy, i.e., the second trimester, the baby's organs and bones begin to develop. At this time, a woman needs to increase her intake of calcium and protein. For this, milk, yogurt, paneer, eggs, fish, whole grains, and almonds can be included in the diet. Additionally, light physical activities such as walking or yoga are also beneficial. During this period, the woman's body remains b, and the necessary nutrition for the baby's development is also provided.
What is Essential in the Third Trimester
From the seventh to the ninth month, i.e., the third trimester, the baby's weight increases rapidly. At this time, protein and iron-rich foods become essential. Red meat, green vegetables, pulses, eggs, and leafy green vegetables should be included in the diet during this period. Drinking coconut water and plenty of water is important to keep the body hydrated. Furthermore, consuming light and balanced meals helps the woman maintain energy until delivery.
What to Avoid During Pregnancy
Women planning for conception should avoid foods that can negatively impact their health or the baby's development. During this time, excessive consumption of tea or coffee should be avoided. Undercooked or raw food, processed and packaged foods, junk food, alcohol, and cigarettes should be completely abstained from. These items not only affect the woman's health but can also impact the baby's development.
Balance of Nutrition and Health
Dr. Chanchal Sharma states that during family planning, a woman's health and nutrition are interconnected. A balanced diet strengthens the woman's immunity and makes the pregnancy journey smoother. Proper nutrition also enhances the baby's mental and physical development process.
Impact of Lifestyle
Not just diet, but lifestyle also impacts conception and pregnancy. Getting adequate sleep, reducing stress, and engaging in light exercise are very important during this period. When a woman is mentally and physically healthy, the baby's development also proceeds better.
