Separating Fact From Fiction: The Truth About Nutrition In Pregnancy

Pregnant women need to be especially
careful to eat healthfully and pregnancy is a great time to learn,
according to a leading nutrition expert.


Marion Nestle, Ph.D., M.P.H., a nationally-renowned nutritionist and
author, said women who are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant
should use this time to learn the basics of good nutrition before, during
and after pregnancy. The basic principles of healthful diets apply even
more to pregnancy: eat enough (but not too much); stay active; eat plenty
of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; don't eat too much junk food; and
enjoy!



Dr. Nestle spoke during a March of Dimes-sponsored National
Communications Advisory Council luncheon entitled "Mythbusters: Myths and
Misconceptions on Nutrition in Pregnancy." Dr. Nestle, who is the Paulette
Goddard Professor of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health at the
Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York
University, said, "You have to be a savvy shopper about food just as you
would be with anything else you buy. If claims about a particular food or
product seem too good to be true, they undoubtedly are! Be a skeptic, do
some homework, ask questions. Rely on research, not opinion. And check any
major decision with your prenatal provider."



The March of Dimes says consumers have lots of questions about good
nutrition in pregnancy including: "Does salt have anything to do with
hypertension?"; "Is it okay to eat artificial sweeteners?"; and "Are herbal
supplements safe because they're 'natural'?"



Also speaking at the luncheon was Kim Saul, a vegetarian and the mother
of 3-year-old Quinn. "I knew a lot about eating well for my own health, but
when I got pregnant I learned some important food tips from my
obstetrician. I didn't need more protein, but did have to add calcium and
keep my iron levels up. I limited fish that might have high mercury
content. I also ate eggs, but made sure they were cooked thoroughly. I
didn't overdue anything. For me, moderation was and is the key."



The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing
birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.


March of Dimes

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