7 prenatal power foods to stock up on

Prenatal power food to stock up on!

What you choose to eat when you’re pregnant affects you and your baby’s health now and in the future. Pregnancy is a good time to improve your diet, so why not start by adding some of these delicious prenatal power foods to your meals.

Prenatal power food: Chives

Chives are more than a common garnish - these small members of the onion family are a source of iron, vitamin C, calcium, magnesium and folic acid. Folic acid is an important nutrient during the first trimester. Without it, your baby has an increased risk for bone deformities. Sprinkle chives onto salad, soups and porridge for extra taste.

Prenatal power food: Spinach

Well known for being rich in iron, spinach is also a great non-dairy source of calcium and vitamin D for your baby’s developing bones. Fresh spinach is delicious in salad and frozen spinach can be stirred into your favourite noodle dishes.

Prenatal power food: Eggs

Besides being inexpensive and easy to prepare, eggs are rich in DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid (a "good fat") that is of the brain and retina, and is important for proper eye formation. Remember to never eat raw or undercooked eggs.

Prenatal power food: Whole wheat bread

Don’t cut out carbohydrates during pregnancy as they supply your body with energy. Begin your day with whole-grain bread for a satisfying boost.

Prenatal power food: Liver

This may not be to every woman’s taste but eating fresh liver ensures you get enough choline. When eaten during pregnancy, choline may enhance fetal brain development and result in a smarter baby. Try having beef or chicken livers in a simple stir-fry. Don’t eat liver products such as sausages or pate because they contain a lot of preservatives.

Prenatal power food: Edamame

Packed with protein, calcium, fibre, and vitamins A and B, edamame can be eaten as a snack (just add a pinch of salt), or thrown into from soups and salads for more substance.

Prenatal power food: Capsicums

These colourful vegetables are rich in vitamins A and C which boost your immunity. Enjoy capsicums as a crunchy snack or chop them into them into stir-fried dishes. Roast or grill them with a little olive oil and garlic

This is just a short list of the many nutritious foods you can eat during your nine months. Just follow your taste buds and enjoy your meal. Get tips on eating well during pregnancy! You have read about power foods during pregnancy. Find out more about nutritional wellness for you and your baby as Thomson ParentCraft’s Lactation Consultant, Ms Fonnie Lo, shares tips at Thomson Medical presents "Journeying with Baby" at Suntec Convention Halls 401/402 this 20-22 June 2014. For schedule of talks and registration, visit www.thomsonbaby.com/home.