3 Reasons to Eat Whole Foods When You Are Pregnant

Whether you're pregnant or not, eating a healthy diet is important for your health. So it's no surprise that many women want to make sure they're eating the best foods possible during their pregnancy. One of the best things you can do for yourself (and your baby) is to eat whole foods including fruits and vegetables, wholegrain breads and cereals, oily fish, nuts, and seeds, lean protein, and dairy. Here are some reasons why:

Whole foods are less processed and more nutrient dense.

You may be wondering why you should eat whole foods while pregnant. Well, there are a number of reasons! First and foremost, whole foods tend to be less processed than their counterparts. This means they have fewer chemicals and preservatives added in the manufacturing process. The use of chemicals, such as preservatives and dyes, has been proven to be harmful to the body so sticking with whole foods you can avoid those harmful food additives. You will also get the most vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients needed for both mommy-to-be's health as well as your unborn child's development as you eat foods closest to their natural state.

Whole foods can lessen pregnancy complications and discomfort.

Research shows that eating whole foods rich in vitamins and nutrients can decrease pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. In addition to that many more minor complications can be lessened or avoided.

Headaches, cramping, and constipation can be avoided with plenty of water (think half your body weight in oz.), high fiber in whole grains and cereals, and fewer sugary and processed foods.

Morning sickness/nausea and swelling or fluid retention can be helped by getting plenty of protein. General recommendation while pregnant is around 80 grams of protein or more a day depending on weight and activity level.

Anxiety and depression can be decreased by eating foods containing probiotics, calcium, vitamins C, vitamin E, and vitamin B as well as foods high in omega fatty acids such as fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, and spinach.

Whole foods help you and your baby to feel good!

When you eat whole foods, you're not just feeding yourself--you're feeding your baby too. And that means that every meal is an opportunity to nourish both of you with the nutrients and energy needed to keep up with the demands of pregnancy. Whole foods are more filling than processed foods so you don’t have to eat as often and can feel better throughout the day. Whole foods also tend to be higher in fiber content which keeps blood sugar levels stable so they don't spike after eating. Sugar level spikes make you feel tired and growing a baby is tiring enough! When you feel good your baby is going to feel good and they will get the nutrients they need to grow healthy and strong.