And for that, your pregnancy diet must include protein rich foods.Get it from: Lentils, eggs, dairy, fish and chicken. Either way, the sweet potatoes are full of fiber, copper, Vitamin B6, and Beta-carotene. Yes, for our children's’ brains too. Get it from: Eggs, peanuts, eggs, rice, spinach, wheat. It is delightful to learn that there are no restrictions regarding your consumption of avocados. Karen Maina is an avid reader, writer, and editor based in Nairobi, Kenya. Mercury: Mercury contamination in some fish may be harmful. Stress in pregnancy may influence baby's brain development Highlights Researchers have revealed that infants' brains may be shaped by levels of stress their mothers experience during pregnancy. enough vitamin K. It is known to strengthen your child’s cognitive abilities whereas the latter has been scientifically proven to improve memory. Examples of nutritious leafy greens include spinach, broccoli, kales, and any edible green vegetables. A good amount of choline early in the pregnancy may help reduce neural tube defects. Sweet potatoes are abundant in beta-carotene. These are essential for your baby’s growth, and iron deficiency may actually cause low birth weight. Are You Worried About Pregnancy Weight Gain? She's been an administrative assistant, marketing executive, senior sales consultant, tutor, and a content creator. RELATED: 10 Things To Set In Place While Your Child Is Still A Toddler. Consuming 2 meals of salmon every week is highly recommended for a pregnant mom. A good amount of choline early in the pregnancy may help reduce neural tube defects. This mineral helps develop the central nervous system of your unborn child. During pregnancy, your baby relies on you for nutrition. It contains a number of natural agents that block the formation of a sticky protein called beta-amyloid that slowly forms plaques and clogs the neurons (thus preventing them from communicating) and obstructs cerebral function. Do not underestimate the nutrients of chia seeds! For a healthy baby, the mother also needs to closely watch her diet. A cup of almonds contains almost 250 grams of magnesium. Regardless of the nuts you consume, they all contain magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and selenium. You can never go wrong with eggs! Besides, pork and lean beef are enriched with iron which is essential in the formation of red blood cells. , eat healthy fats. It’s rich in fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. RELATED: The Pros & Cons Of Hiring A Nanny. Even moderate amounts of beer, wine, or liquor can harm a baby's brain. Avocados. In fact women who smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke during pregnancy have a higher risk for giving birth prematurely and their children may have learning difficulties. Get it from: Veggies such as cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, soybean, asparagus, cheese and organ meat (liver). The juice also has Vitamin D that increases the circulation of blood in the placenta. It contains a number of natural agents that block the formation of a sticky protein called beta-amyloid that slowly forms plaques and clogs the neurons (thus preventing them from communicating) and obstructs cerebral function. Beta-carotene is an antioxidant that is converted to vitamin A during digestion. Get it from: Vegetarians can get it from almonds, peanuts, pine nuts, cashews and sunflower seeds, and the super loaded pumpkin seeds. However, the high iron content of spinach is why you should ... 2. They can be served in sandwiches, salads or juice. miracle antioxidant compound punicalagin is what you need. Another great fruit to add to your diet is avocados. Make an effort of carrying a banana in your handbag. If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, taking prenatal vitamins is a great way to help develop your baby’s brain as well as the spine. Sequel founder Vanika Choudhary’s Guide to Clean Eating and HypnoBirthing. She now works as an organic list writer for Valnet, Inc covering BabyGaga, TheTalko, Moms.com, TheRichest, as well as other sites. Since eggs are cheap and readily available, enjoy taking the required amount for your baby’s health as well as yours. These fatty acids also help in reducing neurological problems that may result later. For moms who can’t stand the taste of milk, yogurt is the perfect alternative. Bananas have an added advantage since you can have one or two as you go are working, shopping, or taking a walk. Deficiency or low levels of vitamin D in pregnant mothers is associated with low IQ level. You can never go wrong with eggs! They are rich… Pregnant or not, greens should be part of every menu. Zinc is one of the most important trace mineral our body needs. It is also helpful in minimizing the severity of your morning sickness. This amino acid can potentially help in enhancing your child’s brain development and memory. The calcium helps you and your baby have strong bones and teeth. Plain yogurt has more calcium and nourishing nutrients. Yogurt also contains B vitamins, protein, and zinc. Get it from: Ample exposure to sunlight (so that the body can make vitamin D), or opt for supplementation. RELATED: 10 Tips For Getting Dinner On The Table When You’re Exhausted. , eat choline rich foods. Chicken and turkey are also good sources. Apart from watching all her movements for 9 months, a mom also needs to find a quality birth center so she can ensure that her baby is well monitored.