Eating During Pregnancy

Fortunately, good nutrition for pregnancy is as simple as choosing high-calcium foods, fruits and vegetables in a rainbow of colors, high-fiber foods, good sources of iron, and taking a prenatal vitamin every day (for nutritional insurance). You’ll also want to avoid alcohol and limit your use of caffeine (including soda). Pregnant women need about 300 more calories a day. However, it is important to make those calories count with good, nutritious foods. Learn more about healthy eating for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Pregnancy Cravings

If you suddenly feel like you could eat peanut butter for breakfast, lunch and dinner (and maybe a snack), you’re not alone. Up to 68% of women have cravings during pregnancy.

Some pregnant women start craving really strange foods and combinations. Here are some common and not-so-common cravings we’ve heard of:

• Brownies with mustard
• Peanut butter & cheese
• Nachos with extra jalapeños
• Gummi bears
• Horseradish
• Cheese dipped in ketchup
• Root beer
• Pickle chips on chocolate cookies
• Watermelon
• Tabasco sauce on everything!

You can give in to your cravings occasionally, as long as they’re not unsafe for you or your baby. Just be sure that most of the time you eat healthy. Learn more about healthy eating for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Food Safety During Pregnancy

Much of food safety during pregnancy is common sense, but here are guidelines that may help, especially if you find yourself craving something unusual. From alcohol to seafood, find out what foods may be risky during pregnancy.