Is Caffeine During Pregnancy Harmful?

Author: Cyndra Neal

Pregnant but still craving your caffeine fix? A new study published by the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology may help dissuade you from reaching for a second cup of coffee. It finally answers the question of how much is too much caffeine during pregnancy.

First of all, let’s discuss why caffeine may be harmful to a developing fetus. Caffeine does cross the placenta, from mother to baby, constricts blood vessels and can inhibit blood flow. The fetus can metabolize small amounts of caffeine but very slowly which can cause a caffeine build up to dangerous levels. There is also a consensus that caffeine may affect cell development and cause birth defects. Coffee and teas contain phenols which can make it harder for your body to absorb iron.

In this new report done by Kaiser Permanente, 1000 women over two years were studied while they were pregnant. They found that over 200mg of caffeine daily doubled the chance of miscarriage. Two small cups of coffee are generally regarded as about 200mg but this is where it can get tricky to track daily caffeine consumption. The amount of caffeine in the coffee beans them-selves varies widely. Caffeine can also be found in a large variety of products from pain relievers to chocolate to sodas. Coffee ice cream and frozen yogurt can even contain significant amounts. Hot cocoa can have as much as 13mg and energy drinks can contain a whopping 71mg. Also, be careful of a substance called guarana whose seeds contain large amounts of caffeine. Two to four 12 oz sodas depending on brand (regular or diet) or 4 cups of tea can put you at the recommended limit of 200mg.

Here’s a list of caffeine amounts in every day products:

• Chocolate bar 30mg


• Stay-awake pill 100mg


• Vivarin 200mg


• Cold relief tablet 30mg


• 2 small cups of coffee ( 7 ounces )


• Drip 115-175mg


• Brewed 80-135mg


• Espresso 100mg of caffeine 1 serving (1.5-2oz)


• Baking Chocolate, unsweetened, Bakers--1 oz(28 g) 25mg

semi-sweet, Bakers -- 1 oz (28 g) 13mg


• Choc chips Bakers -- 1/4 cup (43 g) 13mg


• Chocolate bar, Cadbury -- 1 oz (28 g) 15mg


• Chocolate milk 8oz 8mg


• Jello Pudding Pops, Choc (47 g) 2mg


• Choc mousse from Jell-O mix (95 g) 6mg


• Jello choc fudge mousse (86 g) 12mg


• 3 Heaping teaspoons of choc powder mix 8mg


• 2 Tablespoons choc syrup 5mg


• 1 Envelope hot cocoa mix 5mg


• ensure, plus, choc, Ross Labs -- 8 oz (259 g) 10mg
  

If you find yourself battling fatigue after cutting back on your caffeine consumption, don’t fight it – go ahead and take that nap. Pregnant women need more sleep. Taking a shower, stretching or even a glass of fruit juice may help to energize you. Herbal teas may help soothe other caffeine withdrawal symptoms.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/is-caffeine-during-pregnancy-harmful-616333.html

About the Author:
Cyndra Neal has authored several articles on family dynamics including topics such as acid reflux and colic. She gives advice to new moms every day with babies that struggle with colic symptoms.

What is the Best Diet for Pregnant Women?

Author: Alice Shown

There are many myths surrounding the diet for pregnant mothers. We often hear the elders of the family advising young mothers to eat enough for two individuals. Today, we know that this is not true. In fact, unbridled eating during pregnancy can make you put on a lot of weight and can make your child unnecessarily overweight. What then could be the best diet for pregnant women?

The growing fetus derives all its nourishment from its mother through the umbilical cord. Therefore, while the mother does not have to eat enough food for two individuals, it is important that she take in enough nutrients for two individuals. If the mother suffers from nutrient deficiency, this will be passed on to the child. Early nutrient deficiency can lead to a number of developmental problems in young children.

The pregnancy diet must be rich in all the vital nutrients that the body needs. Doctors recommend the intake of six to seven servings of bread and grains, two to four servings of fruit, four to six servings of vegetables, two to four servings of dairy and approximately three servings of protein every day. It is always advisable to choose food that is rich in fiber. Excellent examples include whole-grain cereals, rice, fruits and fresh green veggies.

Calcium is vital to the growth of bones and teeth. Remember to take in at least four servings of calcium rich dairy products. This will ensure that you get approximately 1200 mg of calcium every day. The diet of pregnant women should be rich in iron.

Vitamin C helps strengthen the immune system of the mother and child. Important sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, broccoli, cauliflower, papaya, green peppers and tomatoes. Vitamin A is equally important. Carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, turnip, apricots and water squash contain lots of vitamin A.

An expectant mother must always take all her prescribed prenatal vitamins. These are specially devised multivitamins that compensate for any nutrient imbalances or deficiencies in the mother's diet. Generally, these contain iron, minerals, vitamins, folic acid and calcium. The deficiency of folic acid can lead to serious birth defect in babies. Green leafy vegetables, nuts, citrus fruits and beans are rich in natural folic acid, vitamins and iron.

Just as there are things that must be included in the diet for pregnant women, there are certain items that must be avoided during pregnancy. These include alcohol, caffeine, surplus sugar, surplus fat and raw meat. It is advisable to avoid soft cheese, and to abstain from eating shark, swordfish and mackerel which high levels of mercury in them.

Most pregnant mothers feel nausea and a depressing lack of appetite during their first trimester. At this stage, they may eat small meals throughout the day.

Many women put on a lot of weight due to the high fat, salt and sugar content in their pregnancy diet. It is true that pregnant women often go through strong cravings and sharp hunger pangs. But if you desire to keep your weight under control and shed extra pounds quickly after delivery, then, it is important to eat foods low in calories and high in nutritive value.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/what-is-the-best-diet-for-pregnant-women-671761.html

About the Author: Diet for Pregnant Woman - Pregnancy Planet is the only community on the web dedicated to pregnant and TTC parents. We provide week by week pregnancy information, symptoms & advice along with parenting tips & solutions, conception due date calculator, celebrity baby news, free TTC tickers & blinkies and much more.

Pregnancy Diets - Importance Of Eating Well To Conceive

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

Eating healthy during the pregnancy period is known by almost every woman. The benefit you would get out of such maintenance would be priceless for the woman and her baby. But, again, it is equally important that one eats right even before betting pregnant. Your body should be prepared to face the challenge if you are planning for a pregnancy. A woman should talk to her doctor to know how she is measuring health wise and if she is ready for pregnancy. A doctor should be able to tell you if you need to lose a few pounds or gain some to approach a new way of life. He could also assist you in suggesting few healthier eating habits or even start with a few exercises.

As you decide on your pregnancy, you need to ensure healthier eating habits. A woman would need to cut down the amount of caffeine intake. She needs to quit smoking if she is engaged in the habit. Smoking would reduce the fertility levels and would increase the miscarriage possibilities if continued when pregnant.

You could start on prenatal or even take some multivitamin supplement containing a minimum of folic acid; 400 micrograms. Food items such as spinach or other green vegetables, orange juice, peanuts are rich in folic acid and could be added in the diet. Prenatal vitamins could also be taken. They contain calcium, folic acid and iron along with vitamins B, C, D and also vitamins B12 and B6

The diet needs to be reevaluated very often. It should comprise of fibers, minerals and vitamins by avoiding excess sugar and fat content. Food with high nutrient density needs to be consumed. Green vegetables and dried fruits are rich in iron and proteins. At least five portions of fruits and vegetables should be generously consumed. Meat, chicken, dried and uncooked sea food like sushi and shellfish should be avoided. King Mackerel, Shark or Swordfish have high mercury content and is suggested to be avoided during pregnancy. Cheeses falling in categories of Mexican cheese, brie, camembert contain unpasteurized milk and should be cut down from the diet. It would also be good to cut down food having raw eggs including homemade cookies.

A woman should ensure ample amount of water intake. While you are pregnant and even before, water should be given the first preference for a beverage choice. This would assist you in flushing out the toxins. As eight or more glasses of water gets in, you could take vegetable and fruit juices too.

A significant thing for every woman before she tries for pregnancy, perhaps, would be cutting out on alcohol. According to American College of Obstetricians and gynecologists, women who consumed alcohol found it difficult to conceive when compared to those who did not. Another reason to avoid alcohol intake is due to the birth defects caused by its exposure. The damage is caused in the initial months of pregnancy, i.e., even before the pregnancy is diagnosed.

Preparing the body for pregnancy would be an important decision for every woman who plans to conceive. The body would be ready and prepared for the experience and challenge and the stress would be comparatively lesser.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/pregnancy-diets-importance-of-eating-well-to-conceive-753482.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

List Of Foods You Must Avoid When You Are Pregnant

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

Most women are aware about the basics of what must and must not be done during the time of pregnancy. They know about not smoking, cutting down on caffeine, spending time in hot tubs and also drinking alcohol. More studies are being done along with research specifying about what pregnant women should stay away from during their pregnancy.

Well balanced diets at every instance are essential for any pregnant woman so that the growing baby receives the needed nutrients, vitamins and minerals for its growth. However, certain food needs to be avoided as they tend to pose risk not only to the woman who is carrying the baby, but also the baby and its growth.

In case of starters, one needs to avoid raw meat due to the risk of salmonella and toxoplasmosis. This implies no more rare burgers or rare steaks. Every pregnant lady should ensure that the meat is well cooked before they plan to consume the same. Cold deli meat must be stayed away from due to risk of listeria. Blood poisoning or infections could be caused when listeria crosses the placenta. Ascertain to know that deli meant could be reheated till it steams and this would then reduce all its risk factors.

One subject of controversy is the intake of fish among pregnant women. Few varieties of fish contain essential nutrients required for the growth of the baby, while a few others have high levels of mercury in it. Sharks, swordfishes, king mackerel, tile fishes and fishes used in sushi have high levels of mercury. Such fishes should be avoided throughout the months of pregnancy. Mercury causes brain damage and developmental delays in the child. Chunk light Tuna contains lower levels of mercury and can be taken in moderation. Similarly raw shellfish must not be taken all through the pregnancy months.

Anything that contains raw eggs and raw eggs itself needs to be strictly avoided by a pregnant woman. Salmonella exposure is high in these cases. No raw cookie dough, no homemade sauces like hollandaise, no brownie mixes, blue cheese and Caesar dressing. In a restaurant one could always check if the sauces served contain raw or pasteurized eggs. Often pasteurized eggs are used in recipes; however, one always needs to check on to confirm.

When a woman is pregnant, it is the most important time she should take care of her diet. The items which are implied to be negative should be avoided as they have resulted in birth defects and miscarriages. If you are pregnant and have already taken a few of the restricted foods, you can further take care to avoid them.

Everyone would undoubtedly have their own choices and preferences in the patterns of food consumed. However, while you are pregnant, it is essential to consider the best of two people involved; you and the baby. Pregnancy is, but the most significant time for eating healthy. This could turn out to be the best gift for any baby-to-be.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/list-of-foods-you-must-avoid-when-you-are-pregnant-753484.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Eating Healthy During Pregnancy

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

Once you find out about your pregnancy, it becomes very crucial for you to ensure eating well and healthy. The risks and complications would be on the rise if one doesn't eat well. This article would tell you the right intake every pregnant woman must ascertain.

At an outset, a pregnant woman should never forget to eat at least 300 calories more a day after she hits around the second trimester. The extra energy required for the growth of your baby comes in from the extra calories to take in. These calories would not give the right to chow every food in the line of site. It is just about 300 calories which is coming along. One banana or a glass of milk equals about a 100 calories. Similarly, about half a cup of grapes, a slice of whole wheat bread with an ounce of cheese would be about 200 calories. Check how much more you eat in this manner than choosing to eat a donut on its behalf.

Proteins are very much essential for any pregnant woman. A minimum of at least three servings of proteins is required per day. This could be either received from three glasses of milk, or 2 cups of yoghurt and 3 ounces of cheese. Proteins could be brought into your body by varied patterns of intake. They are quite rich in amino acids which contribute in building the baby tissue to a maximum extent.

Next, during the pregnancy tenure, one would require at least 4 servings of calcium. Calcium assists in building the baby's bones and teeth, along with protection to the woman carrying the unborn. Milk, of course, is the rich source of calcium; however, it could also be acquired from yoghurt, cheese and even ice creams.

A pregnant woman needs to get about four servings of vitamin C. This is rich in fruits and vegetables. During pregnancy one needs to ascertain to have ample servings of green leafy and yellow vegetables and equivalent fruits. The body cannot store Vitamin C, and therefore, the intake should be on daily basis as a fresh supply to the body. Fruits and vegetables would not just supply the required Vitamin C, but would maintain a healthy diet too.

At least two servings of vegetables and fruits needs to be taken every day and this should not be merely for the Vitamin A or Vitamin C reason. Vegetables and fruits are essential for healthy lifestyle. Bananas, Apples and onions are a few of them which must never be ignored. About six or more servings of legumes and whole grains are required too. These comprise of Vitamin B and E and would assist in battling constipation. Whole wheat bread, brown rice and pop corns would also act as supplement in your diet.

Iron is one most significant nutrient you would require especially when pregnant. The iron demand is always on the rise during pregnancy. A woman should ensure to maintain enough iron levels in the body in the pregnancy tenure. If she thinks there is some deficiency occurring with regards to iron, a doctor would be the best to guide a few iron supplements to maintain the requirement. Lack of enough iron could lead to anemia.

Eating healthy and well is essential for everyone in general. However, pregnancy would require you to eat well as a mandatory rule as it is considered with two interests

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/eating-healthy-during-pregnancy-some-important-diet-tips-753486.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Healthy Eating During Pregnancy

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

If you are an expecting mother you know it too well that eating right will determine the health of the baby. Your unborn depends on you. He/she is a parasite feeding on what you will give it. That’s why it is the greatest gift any mother can give her unborn, eating nutritiously. Although this is true, there are so much benefits you as a mother can reap from eating well. For one thing, it will ensure your strength when your deliver date draws near.

Your pregnant body it constantly changing, and how well it to copes with these changes is mostly vital to your survival. With ample resistance to illnesses may it be infectious or viral in nature your armor from it all is your immune system. The inner glow that most women have while with child is not achieved by simply becoming pregnant. Yes the hormones alter in your brains during this process and they can contribute to the changes in those cheeks that are now rosy than usual. But true be told, it is the decision to go with the more healthy diet does the trick. You see, it becomes a natural reaction, almost instinctive, to watch what you put in your mouth knowing there’s another being growing inside you. This could account for the softer and healthier inner glow. Change in lifestyle is the key. Lots of rest with no alcohol and controlled stress levels can spin the hands of time and make you look younger, fresh.

Changes that are gone through by women while doing their nine months pregnancy are nothing short of tough, in all sorts of ways. The first trimester vomiting is endless. You can eliminate this discomfort by placing a pack of crackers in your pocket. That way it will settle the stomach’s acids from leaking into the esophagus making you queasy. Then the second trimester you’ll have better luck getting rest from frequent visitations to the toilet. But, this time around you’ll yearn for a visit because constipation sets in. eating fibrous foods will help you in this area. Pineapples are good fruits that aid in flashing out toxins in the body. They promote bowel movement as well.

Then comes the third trimester, just when you think your worries are over. Here comes the swollen body. You’ll feel bloated as ever, so then you might think of skipping a meal or two. Big mistake, if you do this heartburn will soon follow. To avoid this eat small portions. You must have in between meals to fight it. There is no other way, unless you are comfortable with taking antacid pills. Then the surest way is to nibble ones in a while throughout the day.

Making it a habit and a conscious choice to eat healthy during pregnancy can help you survive this trying time. Pick foods that are high in calcium, calories, complex cabs, high protein, vitamins and minerals. Doctors and scholars alike will tell you that too much of just one food group can lead to nutritional deficiency. It can ultimately cause preclampsia or rise in the blood pressure. Polyunsaturated fats and high intakes of glucose or sugars has the same effect. Dealing with this, you should increase the supplement in the body of vitamins E, C and magnesium.

Remembering the benefits will weigh out any doubts of eating well. Don’t stop the habit after deliver the baby. Your body needs all the help it can get, after all the delivery so much healing will have to take over. This will be the best time to stock up on good nutrients that can bring fast recovery to your body, making it whole again.

Now that your motherhood has kicked in looking forward to a good night rest will have to wait. That’s why to fulfill your needs to endure healthy food intake is the only way to go. With consistency you can set a standard for your children to follow.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/healthy-eating-during-pregnancy-top-reasons-you-must-watch-your-diet-753497.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Pregnancy Food Cravings - Tips To Deal With It

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

Feeling the need to suddenly want to munch down unusual combination of foods? What about being wide eyed about an ice cream flavor that you never thought possible to have? Then you might be in for something new, pregnancy. All the weird and unconventional combinations of menus grab your attention. Then you want to have lots of sweets and dairy products. Not your usual self, but is does feel good when you are able to indulge in those cravings. This is a natural occurrence that you shouldn't be alarmed with. They can be unpredictable yet it will pass after you're done with the first trimester of the pregnancy.

They say that it can actually be capable of telling you what gender the baby has, although no scientific proof can back it up. How? Well, simple if the cravings' tendencies are geared towards sweets then it's a girl. For the more sausage meaty and cheeses or dairy products then it's going to be a boy.

For a more scientific kind of indication cravings are actually found to be the nutrients, vitamins and minerals the unborn needs. It may be bizarre to know that a pregnant woman can crave for dirt, clay or chalk. This doesn't indicate her losing her mind. Rather one common component of those things is iron. That can be translated as the baby needs iron in its system because that particular mineral is lacking in the diet of the mother. Can your doctor right away, your might be needing supplemental medicines or whatnot to rectify this condition. When the baby's bones are forming, calcium is immediately required. That's why you love to deep your spoon into ice cream and nibble on some cheese. Salts can account for the body's need to have more sodium due to the increase in volume of the blood.

The baby and your body are communicating constantly. Their language is not like the spoken one. It manifests in different ways. It can come out as sort of weird but that's how their system works. Yet you often don't get what these cravings are really actually pointing at. We interpret most of them in a completely different manner. Take for example this, your body needs more vitamin C, all it will tell your brain is heighten the senses pointing towards the right direction. But, for instance the first sense that was triggered to show the sign is the taste buds. And you happen to just walk pass through the grocery isle of chocolates, then the message of sweet was inaccurate. Instead of going for the ripe oranges that also tastes sweet, you went to get the chocolates instead. This message malfunction often happens and you end up have gain too much weight in the process.

The question in you mind will probably be, how to control it. Well, basic balanced diet can do wonders for your cravings. Every meal must have all the food groups so that you're not missing out on any of them. Eventually, the cravings will be lesser. It will never go away, as long as the body needs get some requirements to do its job properly. Don't bottle those cravings it, give in to it. The trick is to have everything in small portions. Try to be kind to your health as well as your child's development. Indulging your cravings is not synonymous to gobbling down pints and quarts of everything that comes to mind.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/pregnancy-food-cravings-tips-to-deal-with-it-753499.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Pregnant Women Eating Habits

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

Assortment is the initial ingredient to the dough. Various selections of food will allow a wide range of nutrient and vitamin intake. A diverse diet of fruits and milk in the morning, vegetables and protein at lunch time, and a light dinner will cater to the improvement of the mother’s health and the growing fetus as well. Eating the same set of menu for a whole week is no fun. The taste buds will get bored of the same old dish and may even let you lose your appetite.

Balance is next on the list. Anything taken or done in moderation is good for the total being of a person and even more to a pregnant woman. A little bit of everything is good enough to fill the tummy with the needed nutrients to support the growing baby and to control the weight of the mother as well. It is important to note that kind of food taken by the mother comes from the three basic food groups namely the GO food, GROW food, and GLOW food. Go food mainly provides energy such as carbohydrates, Grow food caters to the growth of cells in the body and Glow food constitute the various nutrients and vitamins. The right mixture of these three would eventually bring about a balanced diet.

Third on the row is Color. A rainbow is more appealing to look at than just the empty blue sky. A colorful plate of food would stimulate the mind to have a good sumptuous appetite. Color makes the food look tastier as it is seen on food magazines and actual plate preparations. So it is nice to note that color makes the world wonderful as it will make your appetite wonderfully great. As you prepare your food, make it as colorful as possible by putting green steamed broccoli, with succulent fish in tomato sauce and yellow baked potatoes on the side.

Weight loss is out of the picture for a pregnant woman. Contrary to that, pregnancy is the period where moderate weight gain is encouraged for the eventual growth and development of the fetus that is living inside the mother’s womb. When the ideal weight gain is not achieved per month, the baby is being put at risk and so is the mother since it could result to malnutrition.

Food experimentation is common among pregnant women. It brings about new discoveries with regards to food preference. Sometimes, it even results to rejection of certain all-time favorite foods such as ice cream and the acceptance of the despicable ones like raw oysters maybe. And in extreme cases, sometimes the pregnant mother goes into craving for some non-nutritive substances like clay and chalk. When this happens, it is advisable to suggest and offer food that are rich in iron content.

Engaging in the act of eating is a great and fun thing. It is encouraged to take time when eating by savoring each bite as you chew in the food. You allow the taste to be relished plus by trying not to swallow it all at once, heartburn is being prevented. In the case of a pregnant mother, two mouths are being fed. Eating habits should therefore be geared towards a balanced nourishment of the physiologic make-up of both the mother and the growing baby inside the womb.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/pregnant-women-eating-habits-learn-the-abc-concepts-753506.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Pregnancy Diet Menus - 14 Useful Tips To Plan Your Diet

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

Pregnancy is not the same as some common situation that you face everyday! So it is understandable if you have no clue as to what constitutes a good pregnancy diet menu! The basic thing to understand here is that if you as the expectant mother stay fit and fine, you are going to deliver a healthy baby. To ensure this, you will need to chart out a menu that constitutes healthy nutrition for the entire length of your pregnancy. In fact, the pregnancy diet menu can be used even after delivery of the newborn to continue living a healthy lifestyle.

Here are some guidelines as to what is a good pregnancy diet menu—

(1) Nutrition has to be balanced—not too much of carbohydrates or too much of fatty meats. What is required is to incorporate just the right amounts of minerals and vitamins into your daily diet.

(2) A very important vitamin influencing the developing baby’s growth is vitamin D. So foods rich in this vitamin have to be a part of your daily intake too.

(3) Calcium in plenty to help your child have strong and healthy bones.

(4) Deficiency of folic acid will bring about birth defects related to the baby’s brain or spine.

(5) Iron should also be a part of your pregnancy diet menu since it helps to carry the required amount of oxygen to the growing baby in the womb.

(6) Fortified foods and supplements are necessary as they aid in healthy development of the unborn child.

(7) Broiled food is any day better than fried food.

(8) Fresh foods should be consumed whenever possible, keeping processed food aside.

(9) It is better to meet dietary fat requirements through nuts than fatty meats.

(10) Minimal usage of salt is recommended as it has a tendency to increase blood pressure. Not using it at all is even better.

(11) Use wheat bread (whole grain breads) in place of white bread.

(12) Substitutes work as good as the originals. Fruits can take the place of sweets, and low-fat milk the place of whole milk.

(13) Always ingest plenty of water as it is good for both of you. It also gives a feeling of fullness and lessens hunger.

(14) Since there is a temptation to snack at whatever time of day (hamburgers, chips or candy), calories get added on very quickly. You have to find the courage to resist these temptations!

Yes, it is definitely hard to acquire new habits and give up the old! If you have exhibited a love for lots of fatty foods, fast food and desserts, switching over to healthy foods is not an easy task. But if you truly love your yet-to-be-born child, cultivate the quality of determination and go in for a pregnancy diet menu! After all, once your baby makes his/her entry into the world, will you not do everything in your power to keep him/her safe all the time? So start caring for his/her health when in the womb itself!

Strictly adhering to the pregnancy diet menu will bring a wonderful reward in the end—a healthy and lively newborn!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/pregnancy-diet-menus-14-useful-tips-to-plan-your-diet-753547.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Pregnancy Diet Zone - Its 3 Crucial Aspects

Author: Abhishek Agarwal

Wherever certain life forms are found, it is known as a life zone. For an expectant mother, her womb becomes a life zone since that is where the baby’s growth is taking place. For proper development to take place, healthy nutrition is a definite must! The mother-to-be has to be very cautious with her prenatal care if she wants to deliver a healthy child. The pregnancy diet zone can give her all the help she needs by providing balanced nutrition for the growing fetus.

The pregnancy diet zone deals with three aspects—

(1) Balance in Diet: The new life form growing inside the expectant mother’s womb is solely dependent on her for food. Thus, the responsibility of ensuring that the unborn child’s needs are taken care of lies completely with her. A balanced diet will ensure that the newborn does not appear underweight or malnourished at birth. To make sure that her pregnancy diet zone is properly balanced with all the essential nutrients, she has to—

(a) Give up snacking at odd times so that she does not gain unnecessary weight. In short, it simply means, ‘controlling her hunger’.

(b) Ensure that her hormones stay at balanced levels.

(c) Try to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

(d) Prevent accumulation of excess cholesterol within her body so that the cardiovascular system remains healthy and adequate oxygen is delivered to the cells.

(e) Make sure that her blood pressure remains normal at all times.

(f) Build up muscle tone so that she has adequate energy and strength.


(2) General Dietary Requirements: Since the baby’s systems are still in the process of development and it cannot function on its own, the expectant mother’s body systems act like a life support. To enhance this life support, the pregnancy diet zone stresses on certain dietary necessities—

(a) Consumption of whole grains to stock up on carbohydrates. White rice or white breads are to be discarded.

(b) Foods rich in different minerals and vitamins should form a part of every meal. So a varied diet is advised.

(c) Fruits and vegetables are considered as essential nutrients, which are to be ingested in plenty.

(d) Fats are also necessary, but in minimal amounts only.

(e) Water is an extremely important part of any diet, pregnant or otherwise. At least eight glasses per day is compulsory. Each glass should be capable of holding eight ounces of water.

(f) An approximate weight gain in stages is advised for the mother-to-be, to ensure a healthy pregnancy and normal delivery. So she has to see that her body weight during the entire length of the pregnancy goes hand-in-hand with what has been recommended.

(g) The pregnancy diet zone counsels that the growing baby will have something akin to an effective fat metabolism system as well as improved triglycerides if the pregnant woman decides to consume daily meals low in carbohydrates but with a moderate amount of proteins. After all, no woman would want to have an obese child! And scientific research has made it clear that obesity problems may start in the womb itself in some cases.

(3) Specific Dietary Needs: The pregnancy diet zone suggests that she stick to at least the minimum dietary needs during this stressful period to ensure good health for her and her unborn child. Daily intake of—

(a) Cereals or whole grains, especially for breakfast.

(b) Vegetables in plenty. To have at least 5 servings during the first two trimesters and increase it to 7 during the third trimester.

(c) Fruits (4 of them).

(d) Milk (up to 450 grams).

(e) Some fish or meat (125 grams). Shellfish is to be avoided.

(f) Iron.

(g) Folate, which is part of the ‘B’ group of vitamins.

(h) Calcium (1100 mg).

On a final note, the doctor has to be consulted regularly as nutritional needs of the pregnant woman will change according to the different stages of pregnancy. The pregnancy diet zone follows proven dietary guidelines. So the health of both, mother and baby, are insured!

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/pregnancy-diet-zone-its-3-crucial-aspects--753550.html

About the Author:
Abhishek has got some great Pregnancy And Childbirth Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 77 Pages Ebook, "Understanding Pregnancy!" from his website http://www.Childbirth-Guru.com/774/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Getting Back in Shape After a New Baby

Author: Bernice Eker

Many women find themselves in a dilemma after giving birth, when the desire to lose the extra weight they have gained is in contradiction to the health needs required for breast feeding. So many women are still conditioned to the idea that "eating for two" is fine while pregnant, then find themselves with extra pounds after the birth that they were not expecting. It is important to recognize that, if breastfeeding, the mother is still providing nourishment for two even after the baby has been born. While the urgency to lose weight seems difficult to overcome, it is reassuring to note that the female body is a remarkable piece of work, and the act of breastfeeding itself actually aids in shrinking the uterus after giving birth.

When trying to lost post baby weight, the breastfeeding mother must be sure to maintain proper nutrition levels to assure that the infant is getting its daily levels of vitamin and mineral requirements met. Of course, the prenatal ob/gyn will be able to assist with charts and diet plans that will help the new mother lose weight while breastfeeding. Furthermore, most new moms are shocked to find out that they actually have to maintain a higher level of calories than they would expect, again to assure proper weight gain for the baby, because the baby will absorb so many calories during feeding. Again, allowed to work its magic, the female body knows what its doing and is well designed to return to pre-pregnancy status as soon as possible after the birth of a child.

There is really little need for active dieting after giving birth for the breastfeeding mother, as the baby absorbs so many calories during feeding. The key to successful weight loss will be in maintaining healthy eating habits, fortified with plenty of fruits and vegetables and staying away from sugar and fat filled snacks.

When making meal plan decisions, also be sure to select healthier food items, such as whole grain breads and pastas, and low-fat milk and yogurt - if your doctor agrees that low-fat products are appropriate for your post pregnancy dietary needs. In some cases, many doctors will advise against low-fat foods while breastfeeding to help maintain healthy weight gains for the baby.

Most important for the breastfeeding mother to remember is to stay hydrated. Your doctor will advise and recommend drinking a large glass of water before and after every time you feed the baby. Don't neglect this important step. All new mothers find that the feeding requirements of a breastfed baby are much more frequent than they anticipated, and it is very easy for you and your baby to become dehydrated.

The best advice for accomplishing weight loss after pregnancy is to adopt a routine exercise program, rather than concentrating on dieting. In this way, you will regain your stamina and muscle tone, burn excess calories, and if you can take your new baby along on your daily walk or jog, you can also help build daily activity habits that you and your new child can share for years to come.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/getting-back-in-shape-after-a-new-baby-875840.html

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Gender Selection Diet - What Should You Eat?

Author: julie gardner

So is it true? Can you now select the sex of your next baby by watching what foods you do and don't eat?

According to many Mothers in today's world, and Fathers too, it is possible! The gender selection diet will have you altering what you eat to increase your chances of conceiving either a girl or a boy.

For hundreds of years women have been trying everything possible to influence the gender of their yet to be conceived children. In today's society where our governments tell us what is and isn't ethical, and make rules that it's citizens have to abide by, then taking certain matters into our own hands was bound to happen sooner or later.

Natural gender selection and all of the differing methods that surround it are quickly surfacing to replace the illegal (in certain countries) medically assisted methods. Gender selection by medical intervention in some countries is now only allowed for certain purposes. To prevent varying genetic and hereditary illness and disease from being passed down the line of more generations.

What the gender selection diet does exactly no-one is sure. Some believe that it makes the woman's body acceptable to either the male or female sperm. How it does this is yet again another question that can't be properly answered. Some believe that the gender selection diet can alter the acidity of the mucus inside the vagina, high acidity is said to favour a boy, low acidity, a girl. Douching used to be a technique that some women used, although experts tend to steer women away from this method now as it has been linked to causing infection.

Whatever it does do, doesn't seem to matter as couples all over the world are raving at it's success rate. While it can be no where near 100% successful ( only one method can claim to be 99-100% successful and that method is medically assisted!) It seems to be tipping the balance for natural gender selection. As long as it takes you above the 50% chance of success that you have already, then I guess it's worth a try!

It does seem easy to follow, eat more of a certain food type to tip the balance in the gender stakes. The only problem seems to be... What if you don't like what you're told to eat?

To see what types of food can help in your quest for a boy or a girl, check out http://www.new-baby-and-beyond.com/gender-selection-diet.html

Or check out all http://www.new-baby-and-beyond.com/natural-gender-selection.html

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/gender-selection-diet-what-should-you-eat-876267.html

About the Author:
I'm Julie, mum of two beautiful but very demanding kids!

After trying for 3 years to get pregnant with my first child, and then knowing nothing about babies when he did come along. I picked up loads of great advice along the way.
I have created my web site to help ease women naturally into motherhood. So grab a cuppa and take a look around my site, dedicated to all the mothers of the world, new and not so new! Motherhood is a joyous occasion, make it the best time in your life!

Healthy Eating During Baby Pregnancy

Author: Rendra Krestyawan, psychologist

You probably already know how important it is to eat a well-balanced diet, but it is even more important when you are pregnant. Keep in mind now you are eating for two. Whatever you eat, the baby eats as well. In fact the baby actually takes your nourishment so you must eat enough for both of you. The healthier you eat the better it is for the baby during pregnancy and you.

Never miss a meal while you are pregnant, especially breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and your baby has probably been waiting since he/she woke up in the middle of the night. You may learn that if you wait so long before eating you start to feel sick, this is your body telling you to eat. Do it!

Make sure you are getting enough of the food you need daily. It takes 4-6 servings of dairy produce a day for a healthy baby pregnancy, this can include some cheeses, milk, yogurt. This provides the baby with calcium which it’ll need to develop healthy growing bones. Adding extra calcium to your diet wouldn’t hurt you either, especially your teeth and bones.

Don’t forget about your fruit and vegetable servings. Lots of green is always a good choice, so are sweet potatoes. Not only will you be giving your body what it needs but you’ll start to have more energy. Try laying off the sweets for a week and replace them with healthier items and see how alive you feel.

Foods to Avoid
Not all foods are safe during your pregnancy, there are a few things you should avoid eating:

- Raw eggs

- Caffeine- soda, chocolate. If you find this difficult you can wean yourself off, but the less caffeine in your system the better it is for the baby.

- Certain fish- exotic, shark, swordfish, anything potentially high in mercury

- unpasteurized products- brie and other soft cheeses if unpasteurized.

- Undercooked meats- lunch meats. If you are buying a deli sandwich you can ask for them to heat the meat up a little.

If you are ever unsure of the foods you can eat, you can ask your doctor for a list of items to avoid during pregnancy. They’ll be more than happy to share this with you.

You may also learn that your stomach won’t handle certain foods that it would before. Some of those foods may include foods that contain grease, fast foods, meat, and certain foods that have a strong odor.

Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to cut out all the fun in your life, you can still treat yourself from time to time. Go out and get a frozen yogurt or a smoothie.

While you are making sure you get enough to eat throughout the day, that doesn’t mean neglecting your fluid intake. You’ll need lots of water and juices from here on out. The baby will thank you later. Who knows, you may discover that you really enjoy eating healthier meals and continue it even after the pregnancy.

Read my article about children games.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/healthy-eating-during-baby-pregnancy-951259.html

About the Author:
I am psychologist, Indonesian people. I have concern to babies/kids world. My article about parenting, nanny services, daycare, children games and musics,etc, available at http://mombabykids.com

Diet for Babies

Author: kydde0asquare

If your child is with the support, keep the head stable, and can the food with his mouth from the spoon and swallow it easily, which is the right time to move to the next level of nutrition. This is usually done when baby is 4 to 6 months old.

The first food your baby can eat is baby cereal. After baby cereal, you can use your baby rice, then oatmeal. Later, when he knows how to drink from a cup of small babies, you can use him a for its vitamin C supplement.

Once your baby reaches 6 to 8 months old, he can now hold and use the things. He may be without the support and he starts to chew food. The best food, you can turn it on its stage are pureed, pureed food and tense. You can try to boil a potato or a carrot and then mashed to be. You can also use berries for him to eat.

Later you can load meat, boiled and mashed dry beans, cooked and deboned fish.

At the age 8-10 months old, your baby can have a full bite of food. He can pick up Small pieces, and he can feed himself. You can go back to the next level of food which is cooked and pureed egg yolks and cottage cheese and yogurt. It can also be crackers, small pieces of cooked vegetables and peeled fruits.

When your baby reaches age 10 to 12 months old, he can now chew and swallow food mash. They can be given soft foods that the rest of the family can eat, such as biscuits, cereals, meat, peas and lentils, cooked and yolk.

It is best to offer your baby 3 small quantities of foods everyday. Older children can eat larger quantities of food in one day. It is best that your child has to decide how much to eat. Never use force, nor that of your baby to eat more than he wants to eat.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/diet-for-babies-961505.html

Why Your Diet Matters to Conceive a Baby Boy?

Author: Joseph Alford

Many people think that conceiving a boy is a near 50/50 chance, but they would be very wrong. While some people choose to go through medical procedures such as article insemination, there are natural ways to increasing the chances of conceiving a baby boy. One such method is to alter your diet to give the sperm that carries the male chromosomes an advantage.

In a nutshell, the gender of your baby is ultimately dependent by which sperm chromosome fertilizes the egg. The XX chromosome is responsible for conceiving the girl and the XY chromosome is responsible for conceiving a boy. The way to increase your chances of conceiving the gender of your choice is by creating favorable conditions to give one or the other a better advantage.

In general, the female sperm are very slow swimmers but they are also very strong and can survive in acidic environments. Likewise, the male sperm are very fast swimmers but they cannot survive for long in hostile environments. The goal then, is to create a reproductive environment that increases your chances of conceiving a boy by altering your diet.

Since specific environments are extremely hostile to the male sperm, lowering the pH level and increasing your alkaline intake are more favorable to conceiving a boy. Be sure to eat foods high in potassium and sodium such as bananas, potatoes, vegetables and apples. You may also want to avoid foods that increase your pH level such as peanuts and red meats.

A way to monitor your pH level is by purchasing test strips that use your saliva. Your diet matters a great deal when conceiving the gender of choice. While altering your diet can significantly increase your chances of conceiving a boy, it is still not 100% guaranteed and should be combined with other natural methods. Using natural methods are much better alternative to having to go through expensive medical procedures.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/pregnancy-articles/conceiving-a-boy-why-your-diet-matters-to-conceive-a-baby-boy-978372.html

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Natural methods revealed
Get free tips to conceive a boy naturally without having to pay for costly medical procedures.
Increase your chances of conceiving a baby boy by using natural gender selection methods.