Medical Minute: A Healthy Pregnancy Diet Can Boost Your Baby’s Long-Term Health

Expecting moms are often reminded of the importance of a healthy diet during pregnancy.

New research is shedding even more light on how a mother’s nutrition can influence her baby’s health—both immediately and long-term.

A recent study found that babies exposed to low-sugar diets in the womb and during their first two years of life had a 20% lower chance of developing high blood pressure and up to a 35% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes as adults.

Another study revealed that nutritional deficiencies at the time of conception could permanently alter a baby’s genes. However, the good news is that making positive dietary changes can still have a meaningful impact.

Experts recommend that pregnant women take prenatal vitamins and consume an additional 340 calories per day. Key nutrients to focus on include folic acid, iron, calcium, choline, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins D, B, and C.

Some excellent food choices include:

1. Lean meats such as chicken, beef, and pork
2. Fatty fish like salmon and sardines
3. Fruits and vegetables
4. Beans and lentils
5. Dairy products
6. Enriched breads and cereals