Winter pregnancy care: 5 diet and nutrition tips for expectant mothers

Expecting a baby truly is one of the most exciting experiences of a woman’s life – perhaps, it’s the happiest moment in a couple’s life. But the news of pregnancy can come with a lot of physical stress. The hormonal changes combined with physical changes can take a toll on a woman’s body. A foetus is like a parasite in your body. You will be surprised to know that the foetus will take all the nutrients from your body to fulfill its needs. Hence, it is important to eat well as you need to be nutritionally fit postpartum to take care of your newborn.

Some of the nutrients that are of prime importance in pregnancy include calcium, iron, protein, vitamins, and minerals. You also need to make sure that enough vitamin D goes in through diet and sunlight. Fortunately, there are some super foods that one can consume this winter and fill stores. At the same time for your knowledge, there are some nutrients that are stored and some that are to be taken on a daily bases. We give some diet tips that may help pregnant women eat healthy, ensuring that the baby gets the best start possible.

1. Chulai/Amaranth: Seeds and leaves are a very good source of calcium. One can have ladoo made from amaranth seeds. The leaves of this plant are rich in calcium and fibre.
2. Fish: It is loaded with protein and a rich source of vitamins which increase immunity and help to fight infections, including the ones common in the winter season such as common cold and fever. You can eat it as soup or broth form.
3. Turmeric: A half inch of raw turmeric boiled in water can give you relief from body ache and increase immunity. Turmeric, also known as Haldi, is considered as a super food for its incredible health benefits.
4. Cauliflower greens: The leaves of cauliflower that we normally throw away contain the highest content of iron and fiber among all green leafy vegetables. It can be boiled and added to soup, chapatti dough, dals etc.
5. Jaggery: Jaggery is a winter superfood. Sugarcane juice is heated in iron containers because of which it is high on iron content. Jaggery or Gur-based sweets should be our preferred option when a sugar craving strikes but in controlled quantity.

By adding these super foods to your diet, one can achieve optimum health and wellness.

Please note that supplementation may be required in case of severe deficiencies. Also, to play safe, you should consult your gynecologist before trying out any exercise or meditation.