Fruits to avoid while breastfeeding

Studies indicate that eating more fruits can result in breast milk that contains more nutrients such as vitamin C, phytonutrients, and other polyphenols, as well as fewer toxins. However, breastfeeding mothers shouldn’t consume high-carb or high-fat fruits.

Hydrogenated oils and other trans fats can be harmful to the baby’s developing digestive system. While they aren’t explicitly forbidden in breastfeeding guidelines, breastfeeding mothers are advised not to eat foods that have them listed on the ingredient label.

For instance, orange juice, which is often thought to be a healthy option for nursing mothers, is very high in sugar and calories. Avoid beverages that are high in sugar and calories.

What kinds of dairy products should you drink?

Dairy products are another rich source of calories and nutrients, but women may need to watch their intake.

The amount of calories a nursing mom consumes can rise more quickly than with a non-nursing mother. This may be because a breastfed baby needs more calories per day than a bottle-fed baby.

While the milk in cows’ udders typically contains about 10% of the calories of breast milk, there can also be extra protein in the milk. Therefore, nursing moms should not drink milk unless they are advised by a doctor.

Foods to avoid include:

alcohol
processed and fast foods
trans fats
sugary foods
processed meats
heavy sauces
Fatty foods are a large contributor to high blood pressure, and research suggests that overweight and obese people who drink have a higher risk of heart attack.

Breastfeeding mothers should aim to limit their intake of high-fat, salty, and sugary foods.

Vitamins and minerals

Women need to ensure they are getting enough vitamins and minerals. Women need to ensure they are getting enough vitamins and minerals.

While most sources of protein and vitamins are free of artificial additives, there are some nutrients that are better available only with processed and fast foods.

The nutrients that are best to consume in moderation include:

Vitamin B12. The B vitamin plays a role in blood and nerve function, and is found in dairy products. In pregnancy, B12 levels decrease, but not as drastically as vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Some people can build up their levels of B12 after they have given birth.

The B vitamin plays a role in blood and nerve function, and is found in dairy products. In pregnancy, B12 levels decrease, but not as drastically as vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Some people can build up their levels of B12 after they have given birth. Vitamin A. Vitamin A supports the healthy development of babies, particularly their eyes. It is also needed for maintaining skin, building new bones, and repairing tissue. A deficiency in vitamin A can affect both mothers and babies.

Vitamin A supports the healthy development of babies, particularly their eyes. It is also needed for maintaining skin, building new bones, and repairing tissue. A deficiency in vitamin A can affect both mothers and babies. Zinc. Zinc is necessary for the production of proteins. When pregnant, levels of zinc drop. Some research suggests that zinc deficiency could increase a mother's risk of having a premature baby.

Some research suggests that zinc deficiency could increase a mother's risk of having a premature baby. B-6. B vitamins are essential for cell respiration and energy production, as well as for converting amino acids in the body. They are found naturally in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. In pregnancy, women are recommended to eat enough vitamin B6 to support fetal growth.

B vitamins are essential for cell respiration and energy production, as well as for converting amino acids in the body. They are found naturally in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. In pregnancy, women are recommended to eat enough vitamin B6 to support fetal growth. Folic acid. Folic acid is necessary to develop a baby's brain, eyes, and spine, as well as for maintaining healthy bones.

Foods rich in folic acid include:

green leafy vegetables
lentils
legumes
beans
lentil and black bean soup
poultry
stew
Lean meats and poultry are also good sources of protein, and are usually less processed and contain less saturated fat than many foods.

Consumption of extra calories

Some types of extra food are known to increase the calories in a person's diet. These include:

fast foods
processed meats
reduced fat cheese
sweetened drinks

Diet

A mother's diet is the single most important factor in how her body uses nutrients and energy, and how much energy it produces. A mother's diet is the single most important factor in how her body uses nutrients and energy, and how much energy it produces.

A balanced diet is essential for a healthy pregnancy. A person should eat healthfully throughout pregnancy and follow a nutritional plan during pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

Good sources of energy in pregnancy include:

beans
spinach
cabbage
green leafy vegetables
zucchini
broccoli
pulses
quinoa
nuts and seeds
dairy
eggs
protein powder

Soy is also an excellent source of protein during pregnancy, as it contains all nine of the essential amino acids.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that a person should eat an extra 400 calories a day during pregnancy to help with proper growth. The reason for this is that a person's body stores pregnancy-specific nutrients for a longer period of time than it does for non-pregnant people.

To help a person gain weight, they may wish to eat:

beans
peanuts
chicken
beans, lentils, and chickpeas
avocado
dry-roasted nuts
eggplant
rice
sweet potato
broccoli
leafy greens
broccoli rice
low fat cottage cheese
cauliflower rice
cherries
walnuts

and in addition:

high-quality proteins, such as fish, eggs, and low-fat dairy products
fruits and vegetables

To help a woman's diet, she should avoid:

sugar, artificial sweeteners, or foods with added sweeteners, such as ketchup
extra calories
fatty foods, including fish and chicken
Red meat
high-fat foods
sugar-free sweets

Before pregnancy

A pregnant woman should consume enough dietary fat to maintain good cholesterol levels, as many vegetable fats are high in saturated fat. A pregnant woman should consume enough dietary fat to maintain good cholesterol levels, as many vegetable fats are high in saturated fat.

Before pregnancy, a person may wish to be sure to eat a high-quality protein diet.

This involves consuming sufficient protein to ensure growth and development of the body. Generally, this would include:

eggs
chicken
salmon
fish
beef
animal protein, such as meat, poultry, fish, and milk

According to the Institute of Medicine, a woman's recommended diet should be at least 55 grams of protein per day. In a woman who is 20 years old, the guidelines state that the adequate protein intake for weight maintenance is 6.4 ounces (170 grams) of meat, fish, or eggs daily. The ideal number of servings of each food is listed below.

Protein intake for women in their 20s Women over age 20 2.4 – 5 ounces (80 – 140 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish daily 1.5 – 2.8 ounces (50 – 100 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish each additional day Source: Institute of Medicine

Protein intake for women in their 30s Women over age 30 3 – 5 ounces (80 – 140 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish daily 1.5 – 2.8 ounces (50 – 100 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish each additional day Source: Institute of Medicine

Protein intake for women in their 40s Women over age 40 2 – 3 ounces (70 – 130 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish daily 1.5 – 2.8 ounces (50 – 100 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish each additional day Source: Institute of Medicine

Protein intake for women in their 50s Women over age 50 2 – 3 ounces (70 – 130 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish daily 1.5 – 2.8 ounces (50 – 100 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish each additional day Source: Institute of Medicine

Women should be sure to also consume enough dietary fat to maintain good cholesterol levels.

This could be beneficial for the baby, as cholesterol in the blood may affect the baby's brain development.

Before pregnancy

During pregnancy, people should consume good quality proteins and good fats, such as avocados and nuts, to ensure proper development.

Certain vegetables, such as dark leafy greens and lentils, are also high in protein and low in fat, which makes them beneficial during pregnancy.

According to the Institute of Medicine, a woman's recommended intake for protein is 2.8 – 5.5 ounces (80 – 180 grams) of meat, poultry, or fish a day. For additional protein needs, some people may need to increase their intake by 2 – 3 ounces a day.

Protein intake during pregnancy varies from person to person. The recommended intake is calculated as the ideal amount based on body weight.

Foods that people can eat while they are pregnant include:

Beans

Beans, especially chickpeas, are very low in calories and high in protein and fiber.

Legumes contain proteins that are not digestible by the human body. Therefore, the bodies cannot fully absorb the nutrients, and they are absorbed into the bloodstream. This helps to reduce bloating and gas.

Legumes are especially healthy for women who are expecting.

Legumes such as black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas are very low in calories and high in protein and fiber. Legumes such as black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas are very low in calories and high in protein and fiber.

High-fiber legumes can help control hunger, so many women eat legumes regularly to help manage weight during pregnancy.

Foods high in protein and fiber that are often high in iron include:

black beans
beans and lentils
garbanzo beans
buckwheat
hulled peas
shelled peas
kidney beans
Mushrooms

Mushrooms are another great source of protein and fiber. Eating mushrooms may help boost energy levels and reduce stress.

Foods that contain mushrooms include:

Cleveland fungi
porcini mushrooms
whole button mushrooms
russet potatoes
scallions
kale
broccoli
asparagus
broccoli
spinach
Basil

Basil has been a culinary favorite for centuries, due to the herb's beautiful color, taste, and health benefits.

The leaves of the basil plant contain significant amounts of vitamin C. This vitamin is vital for the maintenance of the immune system, and its presence may reduce stress, improve overall mood, and increase levels of serotonin in the body.

Foods rich in vitamin C include:

red bell peppers
red onions
avocados
avocado
pineapple
cantaloupe
orange
onions
lemon
Jams, preserves, and marmalades

Jams, preserves, and marmalades are traditionally high in sugar, so they should be eaten in moderation during pregnancy.

Foods such as berries, oranges, melons, and tomatoes may also be high in sugar and can add to the amount of fructose a person ingests.

However, these foods are considered to be better than high-fructose corn syrup, which contains large amounts of both carbohydrates and fructose.

While these fruits may be sugary, they contain a host of other nutrients that may reduce the risk of birth defects, diabetes, and childhood obesity.

Potatoes

Potatoes are a nutrient-dense food, and they are a low-calorie vegetable.

Women who are expecting are recommended to consume between 2.4 and 3.2 ounces (70 – 105 grams) of carbohydrates per day. The highest consumption is recommended during the first trimester, when women are building their blood sugar levels.

Foods rich in carbohydrates include:

potatoes
beets
sweet potatoes
celery
Legumes

The legumes group includes soybeans, peanuts, lentils, and peas. These foods are high in protein, fiber, and B vitamins.

If a person is expecting and their doctors advise they eat more protein, legumes may be an excellent choice.

Legumes rich in protein include:

peas
lentils
sesame beans
beans and lentils
Water

Water is essential for many parts of the body, including the digestive system and the endocrine system. This is because the body needs water to balance the body's pH levels, and an alkaline or acidic pH can make the body sick.

People who are pregnant and plan on eating some or all of their food pre-made may need to choose a food that does not have a lot of acid in it.

Foods with low-acidity include:

vegetables
whole grains
non-dairy beverages
sour cream
mashed potatoes
potato salad
Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a antioxidant that may reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer.

Foods high in lycopene include:

peppers
tomato ketchup
paprika
tomatoes
tomato juice
Sugar

While many people avoid sugar, it is a critical source of energy for the body. Sugars also keep the body's pH level stable, which helps protect against many illnesses.

Foods rich in sugar include:

cranberry juice
sugary cereal or granola
whipped cream
toffees and other sweet treats
fruit
soda or sweetened beverages

While some people may associate sugar with eating too much, a higher amount of sugar may be beneficial.

Pregnancy requires consuming high-protein and low-carbohydrate foods to prevent weight gain, which could have negative implications on a fetus's growth and development.

Non-alcoholic beverages

Non-alcoholic beverages are high in nutrients, are calorie-free, and may help to keep the woman's body hydrated.

It is essential to consume plenty of fluids throughout pregnancy. Women should try to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses (2 liters) of fluids per day.

Protein

Protein helps to repair cells and maintain muscle mass. Women may want to ensure they are consuming protein from food sources and supplementing with protein powder.

Protein from sources such as nuts and lean meats may be beneficial. Examples of these are:

nuts
meat and fish
turkey
Beans

Beans are high in protein, calcium, and iron, and they also contain B vitamins. Beans are high in protein, calcium, and iron, and they also contain B vitamins.

Beans are a rich source of protein. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, each 1 cup (250 mL) serving contains:

147 calories
6 grams of protein
16 grams of fiber
18 grams of total fat

The EPA and DHA found in fish provide the body with DHA, which may improve brain development in the fetus.

Beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamin B-6, which plays an important role in the immune system.

Iron

Iron is an essential mineral, as it is vital for the development of a healthy immune system. The best source of iron for pregnant women is red meat, as it has high levels of this essential mineral.

Beans are a great source of iron, as they also contain large amounts of dietary fiber.

Water

Water is the most important nutrient for a woman's body. The more water a woman drinks, the less likely she is to get dehydrated, which is a common cause of exhaustion and pregnancy-related sicknesses.

Although it is safe to drink 1.5 to 2 liters (1 to 1.5 pints) of water daily, the pregnant woman should avoid drinking more than this. Dehydration can lead to pregnancy-related problems, such as:

belly pain
high blood pressure
nausea
morning sickness
emotional or behavioral changes

Women should continue drinking water throughout their pregnancy to keep hydrated, and do not need to limit their intake.

Dairy

Dairy products, such as milk and cheese, contain calcium and other nutrients that are essential for a growing fetus.

Other dairy products include:

yogurt
butter
softened cheese
cream
cured or hardened cheeses

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Food Guide for Americans recommends that pregnant women consume one cup (250 mL) of low-fat or non-fat milk per day.

Dairy products can contain harmful bacteria and pesticides, however. So, it is essential to eat yogurt made without any added sugars or preservatives and check the label to see if the food is milk- or egg-free.

Rice

Many people mistakenly believe that rice will make them gain weight. Rice does contain small amounts of protein, iron, and zinc. However, consuming large amounts of rice can be bad for pregnant women.

Some research suggests that a high-calorie diet may increase the risk of developing diabetes or gestational diabetes. Other research suggests that rice may increase the risk of obesity in children.

Some research has found that mothers who consume large amounts of rice during pregnancy have a child with low birth weight.

Women who eat large amounts of rice, including those who are pregnant, can still enjoy this food as part of a healthy, balanced diet. But pregnant women should still limit their consumption of rice as much as possible.

The USDA's Food Guide for Americans recommends that pregnant women eat no more than 3 ounces (85 g) of cooked, brown or wild rice per day.

Legumes

Legumes such as lentils, beans, and peanuts may also be good for women during pregnancy. Legumes are high in protein and are an excellent source of nutrients for pregnant women.

A 2013 study showed that pregnant women who ate more legumes during pregnancy were less likely to have high blood pressure or gestational diabetes.

Legumes contain high levels of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B-6.

Some types of legumes may also help reduce the risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes.

Some legumes that are good choices for pregnant women include:

beans
peas
quinoa
lentils
Sprouted pulses such as black beans, lentils, and peas are also a good source of protein.
Nuts and seeds

Many nuts and seeds are high in protein, and they are also a good source of:

B vitamins
fiber
vitamin E

nutrients that are known to reduce the risk of diabetes

Nuts and seeds can contain germs and bacteria that may be harmful to a pregnant woman.

To avoid these health risks, women should only eat nuts and seeds that have been properly washed and dried before consuming.

Sugar-sweetened drinks

Sugar-sweetened beverages, such as soft drinks, have no nutritional value. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends that pregnant women eat no more than 100 calories (5.3 g) of sugar per day.

The health effects of sugar-sweetened beverages are more complicated, but consuming these drinks during pregnancy is believed to increase the risk of gestational diabetes. This form of diabetes is associated with a large baby and weight gain during pregnancy.

Limit or avoid sugary beverages, such as soft drinks, sports drinks, and juices.

Processed meats

Healthful, lean meats are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats. But, studies have linked processed meats, such as:

hot dogs
salami
rubs
bacon
soft cheeses
meat sausages

Some research suggests that these foods can raise the risk of diabetes and heart disease in pregnancy.

However, the evidence is conflicting, and more research is required before these claims can be made.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend that women reduce or avoid processed meats, but they should continue to eat meat in moderation, since meat is a good source of vitamin B12, which pregnant women need.

Other high-protein foods

Protein is an essential nutrient for a healthy pregnancy. While most of the protein in the US is animal-based, diets rich in plant-based proteins have been associated with a decreased risk of pregnancy complications.

Foods rich in protein include:

nuts
beans
legumes
other soy foods
yogurt
Vegetables

Vegetables contain vitamins and minerals that are vital for a healthy pregnancy. A 2014 study showed that women who ate more veggies during pregnancy had fewer health complications.

Women should eat plenty of vegetables, including:

spinach
fruits, such as oranges and apples
vegetables, such as peas and beans
quinoa and other pulses
other vegetables, such as broccoli
fish
shellfish
dairy

If a woman is a vegetarian, extra calories and fat can be added to a plant-based diet.

Beans, lentils, chickpeas, and split peas are all good sources of protein and nutrients that will benefit a woman's health during pregnancy.

Keep in mind that diets high in protein may increase the risk of gestational diabetes and other pregnancy complications. Women should consult with their doctor before including these foods in their diets.

Foods to avoid

There are a few foods that pregnant women should avoid while pregnant. These foods may cause health complications for the mother or the fetus. These foods should be avoided during pregnancy:

processed meat
alcohol
cholesterol
sugars, including added sugar
sugar alcohols
Trans fats
Trans fats occur in foods such as:
fried foods
margarine
cooking oils
butter
lard
vegetable shortening

In a recent review of four studies, researchers reported a risk of gestational diabetes associated with trans fats.

However, a 2014 study reported that cooking oils high in trans fats had no effect on the risk of gestational diabetes.

Dairy products

High amounts of dairy consumption are associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes. High amounts of dairy consumption are associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes.

Dairy consumption is linked to an increased risk of gestational diabetes. Women should eat dairy products, but they should limit these foods during pregnancy.

Dairy products, such as:

yogurt
butter
buttermilk
soft cheeses
milk
cheese
Avoid full-fat dairy products, such as:
soft cheese, such as Swiss

Pregnant women should avoid these foods during pregnancy. They should avoid these foods at all costs:

cream
cheese curds
heavy cream
stilton
liver
mozzarella
pizza dough
cheese pizza
cream cheese
“feta”
butter
margarine
dairy cheese
sour cream

Cheeses with animal rennet, such as:

trout
lamb
gogurt
B12 supplements

A 2018 review of a number of studies found a link between vitamin B12 deficiency and gestational diabetes.

B12 is necessary for many body processes, and some studies have linked a shortage of B12 during pregnancy to high blood sugar levels, preterm birth, and gestational diabetes.

When women do not consume enough B12, their bodies will absorb the remaining B12 from their diet. This can lead to issues, including bone damage, kidney damage, and anemia.

Women are recommended to take a vitamin B12 supplement of at least 4 mcg (micrograms) per day during pregnancy. This amount is the amount needed for most adults.

Women who are pregnant may need to take more B12 supplements, depending on their body mass index (BMI).

B12 supplements contain methyltetrahydrofolate, which forms B12 in the body. According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), women with a BMI above 25 years old should take a supplement.

Women should monitor their blood sugar levels regularly during pregnancy. Health care providers can provide these measurements, which can help to keep a woman aware of how her body responds to blood sugar levels.

A healthy diet and proper monitoring will go a long way toward keeping blood sugar levels under control.

While it is always important to consult a doctor about potential risks, many common pregnancy side effects can be managed effectively by adjusting a woman's diet and by managing her blood sugar levels.

Women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy should aim to eat a balanced diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables. This can help to ensure a healthy pregnancy and to avoid gestational diabetes.

Early or spontaneous labor, complications, and delivery are possible complications of gestational diabetes. Early or spontaneous labor, complications, and delivery are possible complications of gestational diabetes.

However, some of these complications can be avoided by avoiding these foods during pregnancy:

processed meats
alcohol
beans

Chronic high blood sugar levels in pregnancy can also result in preterm birth, a birth that comes too early in the pregnancy and puts the baby at risk of medical problems.

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a birth at full-term is considered normal by the CDC.

Women who are pregnant or planning pregnancy can live their healthiest pregnancy by eating a well-balanced diet and by maintaining a healthful weight.

A woman's risk of gestational diabetes increases with age. As such, older women should consider eating a healthy, balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight.

Women with diabetes or a history of gestational diabetes are advised to talk to their doctors about their medications and about how they should prepare for a pregnancy.

Women with the following conditions are also at an increased risk of gestational diabetes:

diabetes mellitus
jaundice
a blood clot
high blood pressure
preeclampsia
endometriosis
enlarged uterus
severe nausea

Eating a well-balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. The following are some tips to reduce the risk:

choose a balanced diet
limit the amount of added sugar in the diet
avoid alcohol and processed meats
garden vegetables
starchy vegetables
fruits
nuts
blood pressure and blood sugar medications
large belly
weight gain

How to treat gestational diabetes

Treating gestational diabetes is possible, but it is recommended that a doctor considers other options first.

A doctor may prescribe medications to reduce a woman's blood sugar levels. Depending on the extent of gestational diabetes, a doctor may also recommend a healthy diet, monitoring her blood sugar levels, and exercising.

Although gestational diabetes is common, most women can treat it successfully. For some women, treatment may be permanent.

Prevention may help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes. Making small lifestyle changes, such as losing weight and eating a balanced diet, can also help reduce the risk of pregnancy complications.

If women experience any symptoms of gestational diabetes, they should speak to a doctor or midwife immediately. A doctor can then develop a plan to treat the condition.

Proper diet and monitoring blood sugar levels may be the best options for treating gestational diabetes. However, a doctor may also recommend other treatments, such as insulin, or bariatric surgery.