Aspirus | Aspire | Spring 2018

A healthy eating plan also limits salt, solid fats (butter, lard and shortening), and sugar-sweetened drinks and foods. Don’trelysolelyon prenatalvitamins Prenatal vitamins consist of a variety of vitamins and minerals that help your baby get the nutrients that are essential for healthy development. While they can be very beneficial, don’t lose sight of the role they should play in your diet. “Prenatal vitamins are a supplement and shouldn’t be your main source of nutrients,” Dr. Aguirre de Baker said. “During pregnancy, a woman’s daily intake requirements for certain nutrients, such as folic acid, calcium and iron, will increase, and this is where prenatal vitamins are most beneficial.” It is important that you establish a well-balanced diet and exercise routine before and during pregnancy. Consult with your health care provider for the best way to create a healthy environment for your growing baby. 10 aspire Spring 2018 BABYON THEWAY? Visit the Aspirus Pregnancy Resource Center online at aspirus.org/ pregnancyresource . You’ll also find more information on related providers, classes and events at aspirus.org or by calling the Aspirus Customer Contact Center at 800.847.4707 . Nancy Aguirre de Baker, MD Preparing for pregnancy PREGNANCY nutrition is essential to a healthy baby. The link between what you consume and the health of your baby is much stronger than once thought. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your pregnancy. ‘Eatingfortwo’doesn’tmean eatingtwiceasmuch When you are pregnant, the foods you eat are the main source of nutrients for your baby. Sensible, balanced meals will be the best for your baby. “Most women need at least 300 additional calories a day on top of their typical caloric intake during at least the last six months of pregnancy,” said Nancy Aguirre de Baker, MD, an Aspirus OB/GYN in Wausau. “Your baby needs healthy foods that are packed with nutrients, so women should try to avoid ‘empty calories’ such as those found in soft drinks, candies and desserts.” Followahealthyeatingplan A healthy eating plan for pregnancy includes nutrient-rich foods. Current U.S. dietary guidelines advise eating these foods each day: w w Fruits and veggies (provide vitamins and fiber). w w Whole grains such as oatmeal, whole- wheat bread and brown rice (provide fiber, B vitamins and other needed nutrients). w w Fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products or non-dairy soy, almond, rice, or other drinks with added calcium and vitamin D. w w Protein from healthy sources, such as beans and peas, eggs, lean meats, seafood (8 to 12 ounces per week) and unsalted nuts and seeds. Tips on nutrition and appropriate vitamins PODCASTS Go online to aspirus.org/pregnancypodcasts to find related podcasts.