Information for a Healthy Pregnancy: Diet

It is recommended that you take a Folic Acid supplement a month prior to becoming pregnant. This is to help prevent the condition Spina Bifida occurring.

A balanced diet is important. Your energy requirements during pregnancy will increase by about 200 calories a day. The best source of iron is from meat, chicken or fish. Your blood count will be checked at your first visit and again at 28 and 36 weeks gestation to determine whether you require iron supplements (about 15% of women require supplements).

Your calcium needs can be met by having 2-3 servings of dairy products per day (a glass of milk is equivalent to 1 serving).

Your expected weight gain during pregnancy is around 10-12 kgs. The weight gain is accounted for by growth of the baby, uterus and placenta, as well as an increase in breast tissue, extra fluid and energy stores laid down in preparation for breast feeding.