Pregnant: Macros and micros...

Elizabeth_C34
Elizabeth_C34 Posts: 6,376 Member
edited October 18 in Food and Nutrition
Hi all,

I am pregnant with my first child, and my doctor put me on a 2,000 calorie diet and prenatal vitamins already. I have read a couple of pregnancy books but most of them just say "get plenty of calcium, iron, etc." and don't say specifically how much. Do any of you have some information on how much iron, potassium, calcium, etc. I need to be getting? Web sources are all over the map, and my doctor didn't have a specific number either.

I'd also like to know if there's an ideal macronutrient ratio for pregnancy (carbs/fat/protein). I usually net over 100g protein per day.

Replies

  • LabRat529
    LabRat529 Posts: 1,323 Member
    Hi all,

    I am pregnant with my first child, and my doctor put me on a 2,000 calorie diet and prenatal vitamins already. I have read a couple of pregnancy books but most of them just say "get plenty of calcium, iron, etc." and don't say specifically how much. Do any of you have some information on how much iron, potassium, calcium, etc. I need to be getting? Web sources are all over the map, and my doctor didn't have a specific number either.

    I'd also like to know if there's an ideal macronutrient ratio for pregnancy (carbs/fat/protein). I usually net over 100g protein per day.

    Eat ALL the things. Problem solved. ;)

    P.S. I don't know the answer really, but I'm way excited for you.
  • Elizabeth_C34
    Elizabeth_C34 Posts: 6,376 Member
    LOL @ LabRat! :)

    The scientist in me really hates all the qualitative terms like "eat lots of XXXX" instead of "eat at least XXXg of XXXX". It irritates me.
  • vim_n_vigor
    vim_n_vigor Posts: 4,089 Member
    I 'think' that carbs and fats are most important early on in pregnancy, but, with being very conscious as you have been, you are probably actually ok. My advice would be to eat sensibly, eat what you can keep down, and relax about it. After speaking with the doctor, there will be times that you feel like you can't eat anything.

    http://babyfit.sparkpeople.com/nutrition-during-pregnancy.asp
  • darrcn5
    darrcn5 Posts: 495 Member
    Bump! I would like to know this as well. I know in my last pregnancy I ate way too much carbs and way too little protein. It would be nice to know the recommendations for next time.
  • DixiedoesMFP
    DixiedoesMFP Posts: 935 Member
    I don't know the exact answer. Lots of omega 3 and DHA are good for fetal brain development, but you want to avoid too much mercury, so caution with tuna, etc. Also be careful with deli meats, and make sure everything is cooked well.
  • Martucha123
    Martucha123 Posts: 1,089 Member
    defenitely you should up calcium (to 120% I belive)

    also ask here

    http://www.myfitnesspal.com/forums/show/1920-fit-fabulous-pregnant-

    they should have more info
  • FrugalMomsRock75
    FrugalMomsRock75 Posts: 698 Member
    http://www.unjury.com/store/usage/pregnancy_protein.shtml

    http://www.livestrong.com/article/299176-how-many-calories-carbs-should-women-have-a-day/


    I think that adequate protein/carbs + consuming proper calories + a daily prenatal will put you right about where you should be.
  • jlc1243
    jlc1243 Posts: 272 Member
    You are probably eating much healthier and more balanced than most people who are with child, so as long as you continue to make healthy choices I'm sure you're in the right ball park for macros/micros!

    Sorry no advice or specific numbers but CONGRATS!!! Very exciting!
  • Bikini27
    Bikini27 Posts: 1,290 Member
    Bump
  • TripleJ3
    TripleJ3 Posts: 945 Member
    I know protein and calcium are two big things in pregnancy. I would check into a website such as Babycenter.com to get a more accurate answer on what amounts. Maybe even check on the Mayo clinic or WebMD websites.

    Pregnancy can be really hard food-wise. Things you love when you are not pregnant might turn into things that will make you gag now. Eat as healthy as you can but don't stress over it. I have had 3 pregnancies and its hard if you develop food aversions. With my first pregnancy I couldn't even think about chicken without making my stomach roll! By the third pregnancy I could eat some chicken. I took my vitamins, I did get protein, vegetables and fruit in everyday but it is definitely different than not being pregnant!

    Congrats!
  • Elizabeth_C34
    Elizabeth_C34 Posts: 6,376 Member
    Thank you all for the replies!
  • rickygoodall1
    rickygoodall1 Posts: 1
    Hey everyone, my name is Ricky Goodall, I'm a certified nutrition coach and have worked with lots of women expecting little ones :) if anyone needs more info I'd be happy to answer some questions; feel free to email me at ricky@collisionsports.ca
  • alicerich86
    alicerich86 Posts: 2 Member
    If you are pregnant and very soon your family will baby it's time you read a book with her husband for parents. Because on the shelves of bookstores a large number of books that I recommend you read this article about the 15 best books about pregnancy: http://motherhow.com/best-pregnancy-books/
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