A balanced diet is essential to fitness and good health, and assumes vital importance during pregnancy, the most nutritionally demanding time in a woman’s life. Your body needs adequate nutrients to help keep you in good health and also support the growth of your developing baby. Poor maternal nutrition is one of several factors which may result in growth restriction of the baby during uterine life.

Growth retarded babies suffer from both short- and long-term disadvantages. There is an increased risk of fetal, neonatal and infant death. Childhood growth, immunity and intellectual development may all suffer. Poor fetal nutrition has also been shown to result in a higher risk of chronic disease in adult life, notably heart disease and diabetes. This is believed to be an outcome of irreversible changes in tissues during early development.

A variety of foods is what you need in pregnancy so that all your nutrient needs are met. Morning sickness in the early months of pregnancy, with associated heartburn, loss of appetite and food cravings, may restrict your intake of food.  Smaller and more frequent meals are often an easier option during this period, while healthy snacks may help provide the additional calories needed.

Dietary requirements in pregnancy
Three hundred calories a day, over and above a daily requirement of 1500–2000 calories, is what pregnant women additionally require from the beginning of the second trimester up to delivery. Your diet must include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Protein is essential for the buildup of tissues, and pregnant women need around 60 grams of protein per day. Low protein intake may result in smaller-than-average weight babies who may suffer health problems.