Sure, if a baby is growing inside your body, it’s best to spoil yourself with a few chocolates, a bowl of chips or a creamy milkshake. But food for two? That turns out to be one of the biggest pregnancy myths.
extra calories
Nobody needs an excuse to empty a tub of Ben & Jerry’s, especially when you’re pregnant. Just don’t make it a daily thing, because you don’t need to consume that many extra calories during your pregnancy.
In fact, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, you don’t need to eat extra calories at all during the first six months of your pregnancy. Only when you have reached the last trimester will you benefit from an extra 200 calories per day. That is hardly an extra sandwich with butter and cheese.
No idea
A survey by NCP shows that many women think they can eat a lot more during their pregnancy. Of the 2,100 mothers surveyed, 33 percent thought they could eat at least 300 calories more. And a quarter of the women surveyed honestly admitted to using ‘food for two’ as an excuse to eat unhealthy snacks.
Alex Davis van NCP explains that expectant mothers should not overeat too often. “Eating healthily and consuming healthy portion sizes is important before, during and after pregnancy to increase the chances of a natural pregnancy, reduce the risk of pregnancy and birth-related complications and long-term health problems such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. ”
But eating a donut or bag of chips every now and then? That should be possible!
Source: Metro | Image: iStock