Staying healthy

Last Updated on Wednesday, 07 April 2010 13:10

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When pregnant, it is also best to avoid certain vitamins and food supplements, food you may be sensitive or allergic to, smoking, certain medicines and even X-rays. Remember it’s always best to consult a professional or your doctor about any of these first.

Contrary to the cliché about eating for two, ‘it’s not about how much you eat but what you eat’ that matters. For example, raw green vegetables like spinach and lettuce become particularly valuable because they contain folic acid and iron. (Don’t forget to wash them well).

There are also a number of essential nutrients that play a particularly important role in a baby’s development. Some of these nutrients are calcium, iron, and folic acid (B vitamin). There are also certain foods you are best to avoid during this period too, to keep yourself and your baby safe during pregnancy. Some of these are processed foods, sea food, salads, and deli foods.

Alcohol and pregnancy:

Drinking during pregnancy carries risks because alcohol can cross the placenta (the connection between the mother and the unborn child). This means that the alcohol can get to the foetus, and it can be adversely affected by the alcohol consumed by the mother. This is especially so during the first three months, a time of a child’s brain development.

If you are planning a pregnancy or are already pregnant, it is best for you to avoid drinking alcohol.  Drinking heavily during your pregnancy puts the health of your child at risk.  Alcohol can cause permanent damage to unborn children, including brain damage and Foetal Alcohol Syndrome. If you have become pregnant unexpectedly and have been drinking during this period, you might want to discuss your concerns with your family doctor.