Protein is a building block necessary to the development of new tissues and muscles in the body. A pregnant woman will need an additional of 25 grams higher than the usual requirement of 45 to 50 grams per day. This means that to be able to quantify the sufficiency of protein in the body, an expectant mom will need to meet 70 to 75 grams of protein intake per day. The additional protein need is essential to be able to meet the developmental needs of the growing baby inside the womb. But how can lack of protein affect the development and growth of the baby during pregnancy?

While calcium aids in the bone development and iron in the development of the brain, protein helps build the muscles and the cytoskeleton of the baby in the womb during pregnancy. It is important that the nutritional needs of the baby is met sufficiently especially during the second and the third trimester of pregnancy. This is the period where the baby develops speedily.

An expectant mom may request the doctor for vitamin supplements to be able to cope up with the nutritional requirement of pregnancy. Yet the best source of the much needed nutrients is by eating nutrient dense foods and having a balance meal. This is one of the keys to a healthy pregnancy.

Foods high in protein content are meats, eggs and legumes. Dairy products such as eggs, cheese and milk, beans and legumes and lean meats of chicken, pork and beef are good sources of protein as well as lobster, shrimps, crabs and fish. It should be noted however that not all fish are safe for consumption when pregnant especially predator fish like mackerel and tuna. These type of fish may contain mercury that is harmful to the development of the baby.

Aside from basically being an important part of the development of the baby, protein foods such as peanut butter are good remedies for morning sickness and nausea.

Bearing a child gives a set of responsibilities that an expectant mom need to fulfill to ensure that the baby grows healthy and free from complications. Check with your physician how you can meet the health needs of your baby such as protein needs and ensure a healthy pregnancy.