A balanced, healthy diet is the key factor of your health and well-being. Taking the necessary nutrients in the right proportion helps to carry on various functions of our body and to build a protective shield against diseases. But especially during pregnancy, taking balanced food is necessary for the growth of proper weight. This blog article includes a brief discussion on the essential foods for baby brain development during pregnancy.
Necessary nutrients for baby brain development
The essential vitamins and minerals you need to intake during your pregnancy are as follows:
Choline
Choline helps in the formation of brain cells and neurons. This nutrient plays an important role in the construction of the brain’s structure and the neural tube. Choline also enhances the production of neurotransmitters that are essential for the function of the brain, such as learning and memory.
Iron
Iron delivers the oxygen to the baby, so its requirement for Iron doubles in pregnancy. A lack of oxygen may lead to less development and a lower IQ level. Iron is the main component of hemoglobin, the red blood cell. Iron helps in brain development and functioning.
Omega-3
Omega-3 is one of the most important nutrients for the baby’s brain development in the womb. The Development of the brain depends on the Omega-3 fatty acids during prenatal brain development. Omega-3 is essential for the baby’s neurodevelopment.
Iodine
Fetal brain development and the formation of the nervous system require the presence of iodine. It also helps to produce the fetal thyroid hormones. So, the requirement of iodine increases during pregnancy.
Protein
Protein helps to build new cells and make hormones for the growing baby. You should increase the protein intake. Chicken, boiled egg, and meat are rich sources of protein. For vegetarians, soya beans, broccoli, and beans can be taken for protein.
Vitamins
The necessary vitamins that contribute to the brain development of a baby in the womb are,
- Vitamin A – Vitamin A is necessary for sharp eyesight, so taking 770 mcg will be perfect. Carrot, spinach, and sweet potato are sources of vitamin A. Fruits like mango also contain this vitamin.
- Vitamin D – Fatty fish, milk, and sunlight can provide you with 15 mcg per day to stay healthy.
Copper
Copper plays a significant role in the development of the brain, especially the Hippocampus and dentate gyrus of the brain. This part is responsible for thinking and learning.
Nutrition fuels your baby’s brain, and Fetal Neurosonography helps us monitor its healthy development. Book your Fetal Neurosonography today for a confident pregnancy journey.
Essential foods for baby brain development
You need to include some essential foods for baby brain development during your pregnancy to ensure your baby’s health and well-being.
- Fruit & Veg – Green vegetables and fruits are full of necessary vitamins and minerals which help in the brain development of the baby in developing fetal. Green vegetables contain antioxidants that help to protect the baby’s brain tissue from damage. Green leafy vegetables, plums, tomatoes, and strawberries provide necessary nutrients to an unborn baby.
- Dairy – Dairy products include milk, curd, cheese, and paneer, which are rich in protein, iron, and. These necessary nutrients present in different dairy products are necessary for the growth of the brain of a baby in the womb.
- Fats – Fats can be found in oily fish, meat, olive oil, egg, etc. Nuts are also a good source of fat.
- Grains – Grains like brown rice, oats, and quinoa are necessary to take for complex carbohydrates. Grains help in brain development and contribute to overall brain health. Many cereals contain folic acid and Vitamin B, which are essential for the functions of the brain. Quinoa contains Amino acid that helps in forming as well as repairing brain cells.
- Egg – Eggs are one of the most essential foods as they contain various nutrients. Egg is the source of protein, Choline, and Vitamin B12.
- Seafood – Sea fish is a rich source of Omega-3, iodine. Some seafishes, such as Macarel, shark, contain mercury, which is a harmful agent for the brain development of a baby in the fetal stage. On the other hand, shrimp and crab are full of nutrients to help brain development.
- Yogurt – An essential nutrient, Protein is present in yogurt that contributes greatly to the growth of the brain of an unborn baby.
- Nuts & seeds – Nuts and seeds are one of the most necessary foods for baby brain development. Nuts are a valuable source of protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. Protein is helpful for sharp memory and enhancing brain functioning. Cashews and almonds are good sources of copper.
- Beans – Beans provide several essential nutrients such as protein, iron, and choline. Different kinds of beans, like soya beans, pinto beans, are rich sources of Omega-3 fatty acids that are essential components for the brain’s proper growth. Black beans and green beans contain copper in high amounts.
Conclusion
All the nutrients present in nature play an important role in the growth of a baby. But some nutrients play a more significant role in the formation of brain cells, brain development, and the overall function of the brain. A pregnant female needs to consume several healthy foods containing essential nutrients for the proper development of the baby’s brain. A health instructor can provide a proper diet chart for the overall development and well-being of your baby in the womb.
Fetal Imaging Institute, a trusted pregnancy care center in north 24 parganas. We offer different types of fetal tests to ensure the growth of your baby during pregnancy by using advanced equipment. Our expert doctors and specialists dedicatedly monitor the health condition of the baby and mother. They provide proper guidance, including a diet chart, medication, and vaccination. Our support staff provides the facility of taking an easy appointment and instant report delivery.