Building a Better Breakfast with Dairy During Pregnancy
The First 1,000 Days of a child’s life, defined as the time from pregnancy to the second birthday, are crucial for brain growth and development. Good nutrition during this period can influence a child’s potential brain development and future success. Keep reading to learn more about the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) nutrient recommendations and how dairy foods can support a healthy diet during pregnancy.
Key Nutrients for Brain Development
The American Academy of Pediatrics identified 14 nutrients that are key for a baby’s brain development that each mom should include in her diet during pregnancy. They include protein, zinc, iron, choline, folate, iodine, vitamins A, D, B6, and B12, and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Dairy foods contain 7 out of 14 of these nutrients, making them an easy and tasty food choice for women during pregnancy!
Meeting Mom and Baby’s Needs
In line with the AAP’s recommendations, The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding incorporate foods that contain the nutrients folate, iron, iodine and choline. Did you know one glass of real dairy milk, lactose-free or not, can meet 40% of a pregnant woman’s needs of iodine? Daily servings of dairy, along with other foods that provide iodine like seafood, and making sure the salt used is iodized ensure a woman’s needs are met. Learn more about iodine here.
Boosting Breakfast With Milk
Breakfast is a great meal to maximize! Add nutrients to breakfast by including dairy, whole grains, and produce. Fortified cereal, real dairy milk, and fruit provide a balanced breakfast and serve up those recommended nutrients in a cheap, easy, and delicious way. Looking for a heavier breakfast? Try adding an egg and sautéed veggies, which will offer more protein, choline, and fiber—all helpful nutrients in pregnancy.
Sarah Hester, MS, RD
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