Supplements

As at any stage of life, following a healthy, balanced diet during pregnancy will provide all the essential nutrients you and your baby need.

That means lots of fruit and vegetables, plenty of starchy foods (especially higher fibre varieties) and moderate amounts of dairy products and protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs and lentils.

At times, however, the extra demands pregnancy places on your body might mean you’ll benefit from additional supplements of vitamins and minerals supplements.

So while you’re planning your pregnancy, or in the early stages, you should take 400 micrograms (mcg) of folic acid a day, as well as eating foods that are rich in folate – the natural form of folic acid.

A daily supplement containing 10 mcg of vitamin D is also recommended.

Supplements to be avoided during pregnancy, on the other hand, include anything containing vitamin A such as fish liver oil supplements. This is because vitamin A can build up to dangerous levels that could harm your baby.

Always remember that supplements can never be an alternative to good, healthy eating habits, during pregnancy or at any other time.