There’s no denying that pregnancy is an extraordinary journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and joy. But, as a pregnancy dietitian (and a mom myself), I also know how daunting it can be to try to meet all of the nutritional needs of your baby while also prioritizing your own health and well-being. If this resonates with you, fear not! I’m here to share how you can find the perfect balance between the two.
In my previous blog, “Simplifying Nutrition: A Pregnancy Meal Plan to Guide You Through”, I introduced our free Pregnancy Meal Plan, designed to simplify intentional eating during pregnancy.
While this meal plan can be supportive of baby’s health, today I want to delve deeper into how this meal plan can specifically benefit you, the parent-to-be. Nutrition will always be allocated to the baby first, which means that if you aren’t eating enough or getting in enough of the right nutrients to support BOTH of your needs, you will be left depleted, which we don’t want!
So, let’s explore how incorporating essential nutrients into your diet can improve maternal outcomes and make your pregnancy journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Reducing Anemia Risk
During pregnancy, your body needs more red blood cells to support both you and your growing baby. Making sure you get the right nutrients can help your body produce these cells, lowering your risk of anemia. Iron, vitamin B12, and folate are key players here. Iron is especially important for carrying oxygen and ensuring your baby develops properly. By eating foods rich in these nutrients, like leafy greens, liver, and lean meats, you can help keep your body building healthy blood cells for you and your baby.
Sustaining Thyroid Function
Your thyroid gland works hard to keep your metabolism in check, especially during pregnancy. Eating well is crucial for keeping your thyroid running smoothly. Nutrients like iodine, selenium, and vitamin D are important for thyroid hormone production. Including foods like seafood, eggs, nuts, and dairy in your diet can help support your thyroid and keep you and your baby healthy.
Reducing Risk for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)
Gestational diabetes can pose risks for both you and your baby, but making strategic nutrition choices can help lower your chances of developing it. Focus on eating plenty of complex carbohydrates, fiber-rich foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This helps keep your blood sugar levels stable, reducing the risk of gestational diabetes. Keeping a healthy weight through good nutrition and staying active also plays a big role in preventing GDM.
Mitigating Risk for Pre-Eclampsia and Hypertensive Disorders
Pre-eclampsia and other high blood pressure disorders during pregnancy can be dangerous for both you and your baby. Eating a balanced diet rich in antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower your risk. These antioxidants fight inflammation and support overall health, reducing your chances of developing pre-eclampsia. Keeping your sodium intake in balance with potassium intake can also help regulate your blood pressure, further lowering your risk.
Antioxidants for Inflammation Reduction and Immune Support
Getting enough antioxidants in your diet is important for reducing inflammation, supporting wound healing, and keeping your immune system strong during pregnancy. Vitamins C and E, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium, act as powerful antioxidants. Including foods like citrus fruits, nuts, seeds, and leafy greens in your diet can help boost your antioxidant intake and keep you and your baby healthy.
Pregnancy Nutrition: The Basics
Now that you know WHY prenatal nutrition is so important, you may be wondering WHAT to even include in meals and snacks! If so, here’s a quick breakdown of the essential building blocks to include in your diet:
- Protein: Essential for cell, hormone, and muscle development. Stabilizes blood sugar, supports tissue growth, and aids mineral absorption. Include sources like meats (chicken, turkey, beef, liver), fish, eggs, legumes (beans, lentils), tofu, nuts, and seeds in your diet.
- Carbohydrates: Immediate energy source crucial for fetal development, especially in early pregnancy. Opt for whole grains like oats, quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. Include fruits and vegetables such as berries, bananas, sweet potatoes, and winter squashes.
- Fat: Supports hormone production, stable blood sugar, and provides satiety, particularly helpful in later stages of pregnancy. Incorporate healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts (almonds, walnuts), seeds (chia, flaxseed), olive oil, and fatty fish (salmon, trout).
- Micronutrients: Vital for reducing inflammation, supporting thyroid function, and lowering pre-eclampsia risk. Includes vitamins E and K, iron, and vitamin B12 for red blood cell production and bone health. Ensure adequate intake of eggs, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and whole grains for vitamin E. Vitamin K can be found in leafy greens, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and dairy. Iron-rich foods include lean meats, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, and spinach. Vitamin B12 is abundant in animal products like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy.
I know you’re probably thinking “that’s great Katie, but how do I make this easy- I’m exhausted!!” If this is you, read on to learn more about how the FREE Pregnancy Meal Plan can be your guide as you get started.
Let The Pregnancy Meal Plan Jumpstart Your Journey
As you navigate this incredible journey of pregnancy and parenthood, remember that your health is just as important as your baby’s. By prioritizing nutrition and making intentional food choices, you’re not only nourishing your baby but also taking care of yourself and setting the foundation for a positive birth and postpartum experience.
Ready to take the next step in improving your prenatal health? Want to feel more empowered in your pregnancy experience?
Download your free Pregnancy Meal Plan here and start nourishing both you and your baby with wholesome, delicious meals. We can’t wait to hear how this meal plan transforms your pregnancy journey!
And if you’re looking for even more support to improve pregnancy outcomes, or you have a specific pregnancy concern or condition, 1:1 coaching may be for you. Learn more about working with a dietitian that accepts insurance here or apply to work with us and learn more here. We’re excited to support you every step of the way.