Pregnancy Diet: What to eat in the first trimester?

Embarking on a journey of pregnancy can be an exciting and transformative experience. But as your body undergoes the changes necessary to nurture your growing child, prioritizing a healthy diet becomes all the more important, not only for yourself, but for your child too. So, with all the morning sickness and food aversions that come the first trimester, what exactly should you be eating?

Focus on Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and Vegetables are like powerhouses, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre. Aim for a rainbow on your plate, with leafy greens like spinach and kale that provide folate, citrusy fruits like oranges that are rich in vitamin C, etc.

Prioritize your Proteins: As we are all already aware, protein is like the building block for your cells and tissues, and your baby’s too. So, don’t skip your lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, plant-based options like beans and lentils, pulses, etc.

Don't Forget about Calcium: Calcium is what is, without a doubt, crucial for bone development, and dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are great choices. But if you're lactose intolerant, calcium-fortified plant-based milks or supplements can be explored too. 

Stay Hydrated Throughout: In order to transport the relevant nutrients throughout your body, and keep you feeling your best, water’s essential. So, aim for at least eight glasses of water a day, and adjust based on the level of your activity and climate.

Combat that Morning Sickness: Morning sickness got you feeling down? Try ginger, which is a natural remedy for nausea. You can go for ginger tea, or add a sprinkle of grated ginger to your meals – whatever works for you. Small, frequent meals can help too.

Listen to Your Body: Food aversions are common during pregnancy. So, don't force yourself to eat foods you can't digest. Instead, focus on a variety of other options that appeal to you.

Chat with a Registered Dietitian: For a more personalized approach, consider a consultation with a registered dietitian, for they can help create a more well-rounded meal plan to cater to your specific needs and preferences.

Remember, your first trimester is all about establishing healthy habits for you and your growing baby. So, incorporate these tips and tricks into your meals, and prioritize a balanced diet, for a healthy pregnancy starts with a healthy you!