Many of my patients who are considering pregnancy tell me they love hamburgers, French fries and other junk foods, and they hate to give them up. They wonder if their eating habits will affect their pregnancy. The answer is yes. Avoid junk food. Eat fresh, nutritious foods, including lots of fruits and vegetables. Prepare them simply, with little added fat.
Start Eating Well Now
It is best for you and your baby if you develop good eating habits before you get pregnant. Eat nutritiously for all 12 months of pregnancy.
By the time many women know they're pregnant, they are 7 or 8 weeks into the pregnancy—or more! These early weeks of pregnancy are important in the development of your baby. That's why it's important to be prepared and to start eating right before you are pregnant.
About Weight
Pregnancy is not the time to start a new diet or to try to lose weight. Dieting can cause temporary deficiencies in vitamins and minerals that are important to your developing baby. Ask your healthcare provider about a good eating plan before getting pregnant, and make necessary changes before pregnancy.
