Eating healthy foods is very important throughout pregnancy. Eating well helps the baby grow and develop and protects the mother’s health. The foods that a pregnant woman eats are the main source of nutrients for both mother and baby. A growing baby needs their mother to eat more calories than usual and a lot of protein, iron, calcium, vitamin D, and folic acid. A healthy pregnancy needs each of these nutrients.
Programs can encourage healthy eating by referring an expectant family to community resources that offer fresh foods and produce. Health managers can partner with programs like the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program to access these resources.
Physical activity is also important for a healthy pregnancy. Activities such as brisk walking help keep the heart and lungs healthy. Programs should encourage pregnant women to discuss their exercise plans with their pregnancy care providers, including when to restart physical activity after giving birth. Health managers can look for ways to promote physical activity in the program and help find safe places in the community to exercise.
Tips and Strategies for Supporting Nutrition and Physical Activity During Pregnancy
- Screen for food insecurity regularly and help families access nutritious foods.
- Use socialization opportunities to share information on the benefits of healthy eating and physical activity during pregnancy.
- Create a memorandum of understanding with community agencies that can support the nutritional needs of pregnant women and expectant families.
- Create opportunities for physical activity in the program.
Learn More
- Office on Women’s Health: Pregnancy – Staying Healthy and Safe
- Nutrition Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy
- Pregnancy – Nutrition.gov
- Food Security
