A pregnant woman’s diet in the third trimester is of supreme importance. Much of the baby’s growth and development have already taken place by this time. But the third trimester is the time when the pregnant lady’s body prepares for childbirth and labor. It’s important to know which foods to include in your third-trimester diet.
Therefore, it is imperative to focus on her diet to keep the baby safe and healthy and help the mother in the birthing process. Find out 5 Nutritious Foods To Include In Your Third Trimester Diet. A few foods that must be included in a pregnant woman’s diet during the third trimester have been discussed below.
In This Article
1. Eggs
Eggs are a very rich source of protein. Since the growing baby’s body consists primarily of protein, intake of eggs during pregnancy in moderation is very useful for the fetus. It contains:
Choline and Omega-3
Nutrients Choline and Omega 3 are present in abundance in eggs. These nutrients promote the proper functioning of cells, which is essential during the third trimester when the growth of the baby is at its peak.
It is essential for the baby’s memory development. Regular intake of eggs also reduces the risk of pancreatic, renal, and growth disorders amongst children.
Form of Intake
Eggs can be consumed in any form. It could be boiled or scrambled. However, women with high cholesterol should avoid the yolk and consume egg white only. Calories in eggs are not very high; hence consumption is perfectly alright during pregnancy.
When to Avoid
However, one must ensure that raw or half-boiled eggs are avoided. This may increase the chances of contracting salmonella infection, which may lead to uterine contractions, Premature labor, diarrhea, vomiting, or dehydration.
2. Salmon
Salmon is one of the top foods to include in your third-trimester diet. Salmons are rich in:
DHA Content
Docosahexaenoic acid is a type of fatty acid that promotes the development and growth of the nervous system in an unborn baby. DHA component also results in better sleep patterns among children.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Since the baby’s brain develops primarily during the third trimester, the consumption of food items that are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids is extremely beneficial for the developing fetus.
Good Fats
Good fats in fish are very important for the brain and eyes and have a great impact on the mental abilities of a child resulting in toddlers with higher cognitive development.
Form of Intake
Grilled, baked, or broiled salmon- any form of preparation may be consumed.
3. Green Smoothies
Greens are considered very essential for both the mother and the child as they are dense in nutrients. They are low in calories and high in minerals, vitamins, and phytonutrients.
Green vegetables are a rich source of Vitamin C beneficial for the baby’s immune system, Vitamin A which supports brain and tooth development, and Folate which is essential for the proper formation of the unborn baby’s DNA. Green vegetables are also rich in Vitamin K, B2, Iron, calcium, and manganese.
4. Seeds And Nuts
Seeds and nuts are extremely beneficial for a baby’s development and growth. It is one of the top foods to include in your third-trimester diet. Their consumption reaps benefits throughout pregnancy, the advantages are phenomenal if intake a regular and as per stipulation in the third trimester.
Walnuts
Walnuts are a rich source of Vitamin A, Omega-3, Organic acids, and phosphorus. These are very beneficial for fetal development.
It is also believed that the phosphorus content in the nucleus of the walnut strengthens nervous cells and stimulates blood regeneration. It is a belief that women eating walnuts regularly during pregnancy are likely to have more intelligent babies.
Beans
Beans contain nutrients present in meat and are extremely useful for both prospective mothers and children. They are also rich in zinc which is known to reduce the risk of low birth weight, premature birth, and labor prolonging.
Peanuts
Peanuts contain multiple amino acids that enhance memory, stimulate brain cell reproduction and enhance thinking development.
Almonds
Almonds are a rich source of Omega-3 making babies more intelligent, folate and folic acid reducing chances of fetal birth defects.
Chestnuts
Chestnuts are a rich source of calcium, phosphorus, iron, protein, zinc, fat, and vitamins. These are very useful in regulating blood flow, stimulating the kidneys, strengthening bones, and less fatigue.
Sunflower Seeds
Compared to all other seeds, sunflower seeds have the maximum protein content and the minimum calories. A rich source of magnesium, potassium, zinc, and iron, preventing anemia and Vitamin E content assisting safe pregnancies and preventing miscarriages.
5. Papaya
Ripe papaya is a very rich source of Vitamin C, E, folic acid, and fiber. It helps in preventing heartburn and constipation which are common challenges faced by pregnant women especially as the pregnancy progresses.
Latex a component present in papayas is said to induce inter-uterine contractions. Hence, the consumption of papaya towards the end of the pregnancy term may assist labor.
Try to include the above-mentioned 5 Nutritious Foods In Your Third Trimester Diet. Inclusion of healthy foods and essential nutrients in the diet in the third-trimester results in healthier mothers and babies. Hence formulating a healthy, nutritious diet during this phase is extremely essential.
