Cerrar

There are many myths about the diet we should follow during pregnancy, foods we should avoid, and the way different foods affect or benefit the baby. Below are 10 of the most common myths.

1. Do I have to eat for two during pregnancy?
During pregnancy you don't have to eat double the amount, but you do have to eat better. The amount of food you need to increase and the weight you gain will depend on the physical activity you do and your weight at the beginning of the pregnancy. Complete and well-balanced nourishment will enable your pregnancy to progress correctly and let your baby gain the weight it needs.

2. Does spicy food harm my baby?
If spicy food didn't affect you before pregnancy, there's no reason why it should affect your pregnancy or your baby now, although you may have an increased risk of developing heartburn.

3. Is it safe to drink alcohol after the first 3 months of pregnancy? 
What's mostly recommended is to avoid alcoholic drinks during the entire pregnancy even when you're in your last months because when you drink alcohol, so does your baby. A recent published study indicated that even the smallest amount of alcohol consumed during pregnancy is related to shorter attention spans in children.
 
4. Are vegetables with strong flavors bad for my baby?
Some people say eating broccoli, cabbage, or garlic harms the baby, but there is no scientific evidence to back it up. Practice the eating habits MyDiet™ provides and you'll largely be benefiting your baby.

5. If I get a craving to eat something and I don't eat it, will this affect my baby?
Cravings during pregnancy aren't related to your baby's needs; therefore, if you can't satisfy your cravings, don't worry.

6. Could I suffer from heartburn during pregnancy? 
Heartburn usually occurs when the baby presses on the digestive tract or when gastric fluid secretions increase because of a certain food. Try to avoid heavily seasoned foods, and don't lie down right after eating. Iron supplements could also produce it; therefore, you should consult your doctor if you believe this is the cause of your heartburn.

7. If I'm a vegetarian, do I have to alter my diet for the baby? A vegetarian diet can be healthy during pregnancy if you gain the proper weight and you receive the right amount of vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, iron, and zinc. Fortified soy milk and cereals are a good source of these nutrients; however, check the labels to make sure you're consuming what you need. If necessary, take a supplement or a multivitamin.

Also check the portions we recommend here at MyDiet™ so you get a proper intake of proteins, and consult your dietitian to help you plan your diet.

8. Can I exercise during pregnancy? 
Moderate exercise during pregnancy is recommended because it aids blood circulation to the uterus, keeps you in shape for when you go into labor and, in addition, helps you undergo a faster recovery. Some recommended exercises to do under supervision of your doctor are Pilates, yoga, tai chi, taking walks, and swimming.

9. Does the placenta protect the baby from harmful substances the mother may consume?
The placenta protects the fetus, but not from all harmful substances. During this time, try not to consume substances that can harm you because they can also harm your baby.

10. Does the baby only take what it needs regardless of what I eat?
Everything you eat is very important since food is the source of nutrients for you and your baby. In some cases, babies are born with diseases as a result of a nutrient deficiency even though the mother didn't show any signs of deficiency during pregnancy. If you follow the MyDiet™ plan, you can rest assure you'll be providing your baby with all the nutrients it needs.