The Truth About Eating for Two

The Truth About Eating for Two Excited that being pregnant means doubling your calorie count? If only it were true! The reality is that you only need to add around 300 extra calories a day. That's about the number in a cup of skim milk and half a cheese sandwich, or in a bowl of cereal with low-fat milk and a banana.

If you already eat healthfully, adding those 300 calories may be the only change you need to make for you and your baby to stay healthy.

If your prepregnancy diet wasn't the healthiest, don't worry. Now is a great time to incorporate better food choices for you and your baby. Remember, variety is key. Choosing from different food groups will ensure you're getting the best assortment of vitamins and minerals.

Foods for Energy: Complex Carbohydrates

Complex carbs give your body the energy it needs to keep you going and growing throughout your pregnancy. They're also packed with fiber, which helps with digestion and preventing constipation -- often a concern for pregnant women.

Complex carbs include:

• Fruits and veggies
• Whole grains like oats, brown rice, whole wheat breads, and pastas

Foods to Build Blood: Protein and Iron

One benefit of protein: It drives blood production, especially protein that includes iron that your body easily absorbs, like from red meats, chicken, and shellfish. Your blood volume increases during pregnancy to supply your baby's blood, too. For healthy proteins that aren't high in fat, be sure to get yours from:

• Lean meats
• Fish
• Poultry
• Tofu and other soy products
• Beans
• Nuts
• Egg whites

If you're a vegetarian or vegan, ask your doctor if you would benefit from seeing a nutritionist to make sure you're getting the right amount of protein for you and your baby.

Foods to Build Bones: Calcium

You need calcium to have strong bones and teeth and also for muscle function. Dairy foods such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are some of the best sources of calcium. Dark, leafy green vegetables also have calcium, but in much smaller amounts. Some foods have calcium added to them, including calcium-fortified cereal, bread, orange juice, and soy drinks. Check food labels to know for sure.