Role of nutrients during pregnancy

“Every nutrient that's important to you as a woman is necessary for your baby's growth and development. Yet, certain nutrients stand out as particularly important to your child, especially as pregnancy progresses.”

Protein

Protein is the structural material of every cell in your baby's body.

Insufficient protein during pregnancy restricts fetal growth and it may even affect your child's chances for high blood pressure

 later in life.

Iron

You require about 50% more iron when you are pregnant.

Iron is important in the formation of hemoglobin, which is the oxygen-carrying protein on red blood cells.

In pregnancy your need for iron and hemoglobin goes up, especially in the second and third trimesters.

Iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy can cause fatigue in mom, and possible problems for baby.

Calcium

The baby needs calcium for development.

If you don't consume enough calcium, your body will take it from your bones.

This can cause a decrease in bone mass and increase your risk for osteoporosis.

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA)

DHA is important for brain and eye development. DHA-rich sources include salmon and fortified eggs.