Foods to Include and Avoid

Imagine your pantry as a fortress—stocked with food artillery that empowers you rather than detracts from your health.

Fill it with whole foods! Incorporate whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Foods to include

Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, inventive, and colorful. Aim for five servings a day to enrich your diet with vital nutrients.
Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread. These will supply lasting energy with fiber that aids digestion.
Lean protein sources: chicken, fish, beans, eggs—these are critical for both maternal well-being and fetal development.
Healthy fats: Nuts, seeds, and avocado will keep your body satisfied and nourished.

On the flip side, there are foods that can impede your progress. Avoid high-sugar snacks, processed foods, and excessive caffeine. Think of these as obstacles in your journey—uninspired and devoid of nutritional value.

Foods to avoid

Alcohol: A resounding "no." The potential risks far outweigh any fleeting moments of enjoyment.
Unpasteurized dairy: These can expose you to harmful bacteria. Keep your selection of safe, quality products.
Certain fish: While fish can be a significant source of omega-3 fatty acids, high-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, and king mackerel should be avoided.

A healthy pregnancy, even after forty, is possible!