A Healthy Pregnancy

By by Sarah Mosskoff

Everyone dreams of a healthy pregnancy and a healthy childbirth. Good nutrional choices are one of the key factors for good pregnancy health.

If you're planning to become pregnant or are already expecting, you know you need to prepare your body for a wholesome pregnancy for a healthy baby. When expecting, the toll on your body will require better nutrition, some vitamin supplements, and a normal exercise program for a healthy childbirth.

Whether you're in the planning stage or are now expecting, the same rule of thumb applies. If you have concerns about fertility or issues with becoming expecting a baby, then you'll do well to begin some of these health tips prior to becoming pregnant. Eating right and getting regular exercise are vital in promoting overall health.

Most people would agree with me when I say it is my advice to stay away from caffeine, excessive white sugar and alcohol because they may impact fertility. Your medical doctor may suggest you restrict or eliminate consumption of all of these.

On the contrary, here are some foods, vitamins, and supplements which may increase fertility by providing nutrients, allowing your body to be in optimum form for conception.

Bee pollen or royal jelly are both nutrient intensive foods which promote a fertile state. Zinc supplements contribute significantly to healthy reproductive organs. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc and can so make a decent healthy snack. Vitamins A and C are also important for both you and your little darling. Folic acid is a must-have supplement when expecting. Quite a few women are low in folic acid, which has been implicated in neural tube abnormalities such as spina bifida.


A word of caution on vitamin E (you should speak with your general practitioner before beginning Vitamin E supplementation). If you have high blood pressure, or have been prescribed a blood thinner, approach your general practitioner before using this vitamin.

Another supplement you'll want to discuss with your OB are digestive enzymes, which ensure that your body makes optimal use of the supplements you're already taking.

When you are pregnant, don't skimp on protein or calories, but try to gain weight slowly. This won't be a problem if you truly eat a wholesome diet.

Food choices for a good childbirth include both fish, lean meats, liver (you will need the iron), and lots and lots of fruits and vegetables, especially those green leafy ones, generally high in vitamin E. If you can afford them, try sticking to organically grown produce - you and your little one don't need the pesticides!

A general rule of thumb as you move through all three trimesters is that you eat minimally two cups each of fruits and vegetables, about six ounces of lean protein in a variety of protein rich foods, including eggs and legumes and three servings of dairy products - such as milk, cottage cheese, yogurt or cheese - daily. Although dairy can be supplemented, make sure you are getting the calcium you and your baby need for strong bones.

God has blessed women with childbirth, and we have the responsibility for the health of this unborn baby while he or she is forming in our wombs. Healthy pregnancy are a choice for most women. I would encourage you to make good choices for you and your baby.

Sarah Mosskoff received her masters degree in early childhood education and is the mommie of two offspring.