I have been asked many times,”Are you concerned about your baby and avoiding foods like bread and dairy?”

In response my thoughts went along the lines of thinking: Grains, especially gluten, preservative packed grains, are beyond devoid of nutrients thus pull nutrients out of our bodies with their anti-nutrient properties and synthetic fortified vitamins and minerals. I could write a book on this, but thankfully there are plenty of options out there for people to seek this out further if really interested. As for dairy and it’s insulinotropic tendencies and a surplus of other food sources of calcium, my answer is, “No. Not at all.”

Yet, on topic, I am very happy with the food choices I am making for my bundle of joy and am confident in recommending these foods to other moms-to-be and anyone in general. Bottom-line, these choices are not just real food (which is a huge win) but they are also high quality, nutritious whole food that are scrumptious..

Eggs – from the farmer’s market; the grocery store versions do not compare.

Dark Leafy Greens/Vegetables – I have been craving broccoli as if it were chocolate, to say the least. And gushing for salads, yet, please note you need to be careful with salads because they carry the highest risk of food born illness of most foods. Dark green vegetables are rich in folate and calcium, two nutrients to look after when pregnant.

Nuts – a good source of omega 3 fatty acids. Data from a 2011 study by researchers at Emory University found adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy was related to lower incidence of colds in babies after delivery. (Of course, fish is also a great option for essential fatty acids. I take cod liver oil as well).

Red Meat – pork, beef, bison. I choose it all and it is comforting to know that these foods are rich in iron, which goes right along with the increased need during pregnancy. I do not buy any pork though, I ensure it’s pasture-raised as well as my beef organic and grassfed.

Fermented Foods – I have been enjoying some homemade sauerkraut  sourced from the Green City Market here in Chicago. During pregnancy our gut flora is going through some major changes and keep my gut in check is important for my immune system along with my overall health.

Bone Broth/Homemade Soups – bone broth has so many health benefits, including assisting and strengthening your immune system, which can be compressed with pregnancy. Soups are also a nutrition powerhouse when using quality ingredients and a perfect solution when you don’t have the energy to be fussed making a homemade meal. Slow-cookers are god’s gift to the kitchen!

Coconut Milk, Flakes and Oil – rich source of manganese, a mineral necessary for enzymes that work to protect the body from and repair damage caused by free radicals.  Copper, iron and selenium are also found in good quantities in coconut, as are calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and zinc to a lesser degree.  Coconut is a fairly good source of many B-vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, and pantothenic acid.  Coconut is also a source of vitamins C and E, phytosterols, and fiber. 

Among the above food staples in my weekly diet, I follow the dirty dozen, reducing my exposure to pesticides and toxins.

Other Good, Related Articles:

5 Ways to Change Your Childs Palate Towards Real Food

Red Wine and Sushi: Pregnancy Diet Myths Debunked

Causes of Infertility / 5 Fixable Possibilities