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Maintaining a balanced diet is a vital part of prenatal care. Some nutrients are so essential during pregnancy, your OB-GYN might advise you to take supplements even if you eat healthy foods. The compassionate team at Advanced OB-GYN Services, with offices in St. Peters and Bridgeton, MO, share insight on nutrition’s role during pregnancy.

3 Facts About Nutrition & Prenatal Care

It’s Never Too Early to Start Eating Well

Proper nutrition is essential for not only a healthy pregnancy but conception. If you and your partner are trying to conceive, start focusing on your diet now. This includes limiting your caffeine and alcohol intake. You also might want to take prenatal vitamins to prepare your body.

You Need Plenty of Folic Acid

Prenatal care Bridgeton St. Peters MOFolic acid is an essential nutrient during pregnancy, and you should get into the habit of taking supplements daily before you conceive. You also can consume more foods that are high in folic acid, such as leafy greens, citrus fruits, and beans, as part of your prenatal care. Maintaining a diet high in this nutrient will reduce the risk of birth defects that develop during the first few weeks of pregnancy.

You Are Not Really Eating for Two

As your pregnancy progresses, you need to consume more calories but shouldn’t fall into the trap of “eating for two” because it will only lead to excessive weight gain. For example, during the first trimester, you do not need to increase your caloric intake. By the second trimester, your gynecologist might advise you to increase your daily intake by 300 calories, and you could need an extra 500 calories a day by the third trimester.

If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, turn to Advanced OB-GYN Services for outstanding care. To schedule an appointment, call (636) 928-1800 for their St. Peters office or (314) 291-2140 for their Bridgeton location. To learn more about their prenatal care and pregnancy preparation services, visit their website. Check their Facebook page for more advice from their gynecology and obstetrics team.

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