WeMoms
2 Apr 2024

Protein Matters

Pregnancy
Nutrition and pregnancy
Protein Matters
The Why
Protein is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in the growth and development of your baby. It is the building block of every cell in your baby’s body and is necessary for the development of organs, bones, muscles, and tissues.
Protein also helps to build and repair your own tissues and muscles, which is especially important during pregnancy as your body undergoes significant changes.
Protein can also help to prevent preterm labor and low birth weight.
Studies have shown that pregnant women who consume adequate amounts of protein are less likely to have preterm labor and deliver babies with low birth weights.
Additionally, protein can help to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, both of which can be serious complications during pregnancy.
The How Much
The amount of protein you need during pregnancy depends on your individual circumstances, including your weight, age, and activity level.
Generally, pregnant women should aim to consume at least 70-100 grams of protein per day. This can be achieved through a combination of foods and supplements.
Please note that it's, of course, best to consult your doctor to determine the best for quantity for you.
The Sources
Getting enough protein during pregnancy can be challenging, especially if you’re experiencing nausea or food aversions.
Here are some tips to help you get the protein you need:
  • Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast such as eggs, Greek yogurt, or a protein shake.
  • Include protein in every meal and snack. For example, add chicken or beans to your salad, or snack on a handful of nuts.
  • Choose high-protein snacks such as beef jerky, cheese, or hard-boiled eggs.
  • Talk to your healthcare provider about whether a prenatal vitamin with added protein is right for you.
Tips
There are many sources of protein that are safe to consume during pregnancy. Some good sources of protein include:
  • Lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and beef
  • Fish and seafood low in mercury
  • Eggs
  • Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt
  • Legumes such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas
  • Nuts and seeds
It’s important to choose lean sources of protein whenever possible, as these are lower in fat and calories than other sources of protein.
Keep learning
Healthy Eating Essentials
1 min read
S
Shannon
26 Oct 2023

To all the mamas here, did you know that our bodies need 80g of protein? That's comparable to 15 eggs or 3 & 1/2 Chicken breasts!! I'm not sure if I've been tired because I needed more protein but also now I'm not eating heavy sugars. Here's a few snacks I got low in sugar but great in protein I suggest this best for anyone maybe having diabetes really because I think I'm having sugar crash Idk also I didn't get enough sleep last night and was a zombie for 10am appointment today.. anyways !!!! so premier protein chocolate is aight, Catalina crunch keto cinnamon toast cereal tastes appealing it uses stevia has 0 sugar and 11g of protein, then i got regular almonds with 1/4 cup =6 g protein so if u like almonds more than i do feel free to get double the benefits!! Last not least PROTEIN YOGURT! ratio and oikos has 20g of protein or more ! So just take your pick and check out the labels real quick really it's usually on the front anyways but I check to make sure it ain't no lies ! Anyways I'd also use this method to help avoid the gestational diabetes situation because it's all low in sugar and everything tastes pretty good for what it is ya know ? Otherwise take care mamma's!!

Pregnancy Nutrition and pregnancy
4 comments
C
Charletta
I will be getting some of this thanks for the information
27 Mar 2024

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S
Shannon
you're welcome !! Take care
27 Mar 2024

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