If you’re currently expecting, you must have heard the “eating for two” tagline more than once. And, funnily, it’s true! In fact, it’s more like eating less for yourself and more for the child that you’re about to bring into the world.

As a mother, it is obvious that you’d want nothing but the best for your baby, and would want them to leave your nourishing womb as healthy as possible. For this purpose, it is essential that you eat right.

Mentioned below are some of the most nutritious foods that you need to add to your diet ASAP if you’re expecting.

Berries

Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries are a source of vitamin C, folic acid, potassium, antioxidants, and beta carotene. These minerals help to form healthy skin for your baby. Berries also build the immune system.

Mangoes

Mango is also full of potassium, fiber, and folic acid that aids in iron absorption. It is also a good source of several vitamins which are essential for a pregnant woman. Although this fruit is highly nutritious, make sure to take moderate amounts of it as it may increase heat in the body.

Apples

Apple is full of potassium, iron, and vitamins C and A. They are high in fiber content and the pectin that is present in apples serves as a food for the good bacteria present in your body. To get the most nutrients from it, remember not to take off the peel.

Oranges

Orange is a very good source of vitamin C that helps in cell prevention and helps the fetus to absorb iron. The folic acid present in oranges prevents the neural tube from defects thus eliminating the chances of spinal cord and brain abnormalities.

Bananas

It is a wholesome fruit full of potassium and fiber which prevents constipation. Vitamin B6 present in bananas counter the feeling of nausea in the early pregnancy.

What is the best way to intake these fruits?

Most of us like to eat fruits raw but it must be a little tricky for an expecting mom to keep it down while feeling nauseous. You can take these fruits in the form of juice or milkshakes. Especially oranges are very good at controlling vomits in the first trimester. You can also make a nice quick dessert like banoffee pie or mango truffle. This is a phase of life where you are not so conscious if you gain a little few pounds. Or just make a fruit salad, season it with sugar and lemon and enjoy it with a spoon.

Do you skip the supplements recommended by the doctor?

These fruits are a good source of essential nutrients and vitamins. If you are taking a sufficient amount of these fruits and your child’s growth is normal, you can skip the supplements. But do not forget to discuss this with your doctor. If your child’s birth is slower, you will have to continue taking the supplements along with all the healthy fruits and a balanced diet.

These fruits are not only good for a baby’s development in the mother’s womb but also make the mother healthy. A healthy mother means a healthy baby and easy delivery. However, it does not mean that you start taking these fruits in excessive amounts or skip your meals entirely thinking that these fruits are just enough.