Negros Oriental - Are you looking forward to having your first baby? Are you prepared for pregnancy and birth? It's a good idea to focus on healthy eating habits now that you're attempting to conceive. Pre-pregnancy nutrition is an essential component of pregnancy preparation. You don't have to wait until you're expecting a child to start eating healthy.

Here are some important nutrients to consume while attempting to conceive:

Folic Acid. It is very important before and throughout pregnancy. It is crucial for the healthy organ development of a developing newborn. Preventing birth abnormalities such as spina bifida, encephalocele (occasionally), and anencephaly can be prevented by taking folic acid before becoming pregnant. A daily folic acid supplement dose of 400 micrograms is advised. Folic Acid can also be found in whole foods like green leafy vegetables, beans, nuts, etc.

Calcium. Your body needs calcium to provide for the health and development of a baby's teeth and bones in the future. When your low in calcium during pregnancy, calcium reserved from your bones will be used up for the developing baby, thus increasing your risk of osteoporosis (brittle bones) in the future. It’s important to store calcium now for you and your baby. You can get calcium from milk, yogurt, cheese, broccoli and other vegetables.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids. These acids aid in the regulation of important ovulation-inducing hormones and increased blood supply to the reproductive organs. Sea foods, nuts and seeds, etc. are some sources of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Iron. Iron deficiency is very common among women of childbearing age because of diet and menstruation. Woman's red blood cell mass expands during pregnancy, and to provide an adequate iron supply for the placenta and the growing child, iron stores are critical. Women require approximately 18 milligrams per day.

Variety. Remember to eat a variety of healthful foods to maintain a balanced diet. Eat as healthily as possible before your pregnancy to set you up for the big changes in your body. // ND II Raya Faith A. Luce, RND