Now that you are pregnant, it is important to take particular care of your daily food and drink intake and be informed about eating during pregnancy and breastfeeding. If you wish to incorporate special food and herbs into your diet, talk to your obstetrician about it. However, if you choose to avoid a wide range of foods due to uncertainty or fear, ask a qualified dietician or nutritionist for nutritional equivalents.

• Before Conception
  Your child’s nutritional future begins before conception and is dependent on your nutritional status before pregnancy. Some of baby’s precious vital organs such as the spinal cord, start to develop well before a mother usually realises she is pregnant. Therefore, be sure to eat a nutritious diet at least three months before you conceive.
• During Pregnancy
  When expecting, eat a wholesome and nourishing diet that is rich in nutrients that support the development of the fetus such as folic acid, iron, calcium and essential fatty acids, especially DHA. Include a variety of fibre-rich foods, including FOS, to develop a healthy digestive system. Dietary supplements may also be needed to help meet the additional nutrient requirements during pregnancy.
• After Delivery
  Breast milk is best for baby, and breastfeeding delivers many benefits to both mother and baby. Prepare to breastfeed your baby exclusively for six months, and continue to breastfeed as you introduce age-appropriate food after that.
  
  Nutrient needs of a woman are at an all time high during breastfeeding, so be sure to nourish yourself well each day. Sufficient fluids and energy ensure a good supply of breast milk, whereas vitamins, minerals and essential fat levels in breast milk are influenced by the mother.
  
  The greatest increases for nutrient requirements during this time are for carbohydrates; protein; fat, especially DHA; fibre; vitamins A, E, C and B-complex, which includes folate and choline; as well as minerals such as zinc and iodine. To ensure you are optimally nourished, include a wide variety of lower fat but nutrient-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meat, poultry, fish, milk and milk products as well as nuts and seeds.
• Vital nutrients in breast milk
  Breast milk provides all the nutrients a baby needs for the first six months of life. The essential nutrients in breast milk support the optimal growth and development of the baby and all organs and system. Breast milk contains:
  
  
  • DHA and AA, which are building blocks for brain and eye development
  • Taurine and choline to support overall mental development and functioning
  • Calcium and Vitamin D for bone development
  • Vitamins, minerals, oligosaccharide fibres and many other bioactive components that help protect the infant from infections
  • Nucleotides which are building blocks of DNA and essential for normal cell function
  • Fat, protein and carbohydrates, which are easily digested and absorbed
  
  Ensure the best quality of breast milk for your child by incorporating healthy and nutritious food into your diet. Breastfeeding is not only a suitable way for baby to receive nutrients, but also serves as a bonding time for mother and child.