The third month of pregnancy (9-12 weeks) can be a difficult time for the mother-to-be, as the morning sickness, fatigue, and mood swings increase tremendously. This is also the time when the most number of miscarriages have been reported. It is, therefore, very important for the mom-to-be to remain stress-free. She should also eat nutritious food to ensure the healthy growth and development of the baby. An expecting mother’s diet during the third month of pregnancy plays a crucial role in determining the health of the foetus.
Video: Third Month of Pregnancy Diet – Foods to Eat and Avoid
3rd Month of Pregnancy Diet – What Foods to Eat
Your pregnancy diet in the first trimester should provide all the nutrition the foetus needs to grow into a healthy baby. Are you wondering what to eat during the 3rd month of pregnancy to have a healthy baby? Here is a list of foods you should include in your diet chart:
1. Vitamin B6-Rich Foods
In the third month, morning sickness may peak at week 9 and may start decreasing by the end of week 12. Vitamin B6 helps combat nausea and vomiting. Examples of vitamin B6-rich foods include lean meats, poultry, eggs, citrus fruits, legumes, soybeans, nuts, seeds, and avocados.
2. Folate-Rich Foods
Folate or folic acid is very important for the proper development of the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Even if you are taking folic acid supplements, it is good to include natural sources of folate-rich foods in your diet. Examples of folate-rich foods are broccoli, citrus fruits, beans, peas, lentils, avocado, Brussels sprouts, okra, asparagus, and dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale.
3. Omega-3-Rich Foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that are necessary for the healthy development of the eyes and brain in the baby. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids are soybeans, canola oil, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds, salmon, mackerel, sardines, and wild rice.
4. Fresh Fruits
Fruits contain a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants that are essential for the baby’s healthy growth and development. Fresh fruits are a better source of nutrients than fruit juices and canned or frozen fruit. Include plenty of muskmelons, avocados, pomegranate, bananas, guava, oranges, sweet limes, strawberries, and apples in your diet.
5. Vegetables
Healthy food for a 3-months-pregnant lady should include at least 3 cups of vegetables per day. Choose different coloured vegetables and mix them up to ensure you get a wide range of nutrients and tastes. Examples include kale, spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, pumpkin, bell peppers, corn, eggplant, cabbage, drumstick, etc.
6. Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an essential energy source for our bodies. Complex carbohydrates are found in foods like whole grains and legumes, and starchy vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes are good for the body and provide steady amounts of energy. Simple carbohydrates from natural sources like fruits and vegetables that contain fibre are also good for your growing baby. Avoid simple carbs like refined flour and processed foods such as cookies and cakes. These are just empty calories that are bad for the baby.
Source
1. https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/third-month-pregnancy-diet-9-12-weeks/
2. https://parenting.firstcry.com/articles/third-month-pregnancy-diet-9-12-weeks/