Nutrition during the trimesters

First trimester

Nutritional needs

50% increase in need for vitamins and
minerals; folate, zinc & iron.

Hindering factors

Immune systems of both the child and the mother
tend to weaken.

Certain food items have the ability to harm the baby
(Ex. Uncooked meats and fish, raw/unpasteurized milk)

Facilitating Factors

Consumption of vitamin B6 may help reduce nausea
and morning sickness for the mother around this time of pregnancy.

Second trimester

Nutritional needs

Required proteins, carbohydrates, anything that
helps fuel an individual with energy.

Additional 300 Kcals are necessary during the second
trimester.

Hindering factors

Similar to that of the first trimester, raw foods
should be avoided, due to their risk of causing foodborne illnesses and pathogens. These pathogens have the potential to lead to a miscarriage, deformities, etc.

Facilitating Factors

Foods rich in Omega-3 (nuts, seeds, plant oils, cooked
fish), green veggies, carbs

Third trimester

Nutritional needs

Fiber-rich diet can help mother decrease heartburn,
as well as constipation.

Additional 450 Kcals required for consumptions

Hindering Factors

The baby pushing against the mothers the mother's
internal organs can lead to heartburn.

Avoid processed and fast foods to prevent
cardiovascular complications, as heartburn is already experienced.

Facilitating Factors

Whole grains (Whole wheat bread, etc.), proteins (Chicken, legumes, etc)