
Nutrient alert!
Are you getting enough of these key nutrients? Many pregnant women aren't.
Iodine
Who's at risk – Many pregnant women in Australia are iodine deficient, according to Australian research from 2007. "Iodine is a vital element needed for foetal development," says Blackmores Education Director Pam Stone.
What to do – If you take a pregnancy supplement, ensure it contains iodine.
Iron
Who's at risk – A lot of women are drawn to vegetarianism but don't do it properly, says naturopath Belinda Graham. "They'll have Weetbix for breakfast, banana bread at morning tea and a salad for lunch. By that time they're very low in iron and feeling fatigued, so they'll have sweets and caffeine mid-afternoon, and a heavy meal at night, without getting enough protein all day," she says.
What to do – Try an extra serving of fortified cereal, soybeans and a handful of pumpkin seeds each day, and have your blood tested for iron levels.
Folate
Who's at risk – Even if you're eating a balanced diet, it can be hard to get enough folate during pregnancy.
What to do – Bulk up on spinach and asparagus, two great sources of folate, and support your diet with folate supplementation.