10 Things To Eat During Pregnancy To Make Baby Smart

Smart kids are what every mother out there hopes for. It’s important to note that much of the kid’s intelligence depends on the mother’s diet during pregnancy. There is the need for the mother to necessary nutrients for the excellent brain development of the baby. Some of the foods necessary for smart babies include:

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During pregnancy, eat good portions of;

  1. Omega 3 rich foods

Omega 3 fatty acids are important for the production of neurons that aid in communication between the brain and other body parts.  Fish are known sources of omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for the brain development of the baby. A recent study showed that babies born to mothers who consumed, at least, two servings of fish per week were shown to have a higher IQ than those who didn’t. Other excellent sources of omega-3 include flax seeds, walnuts, eggs, iron-enhanced cereals, red meat and spinach. The sources are fairly available, and you don’t have an excuse for not taking them. However, note that some fish may have high levels of mercury should be avoided.

  1. Proteins

The growth of the baby relies majorly on the development of new cells and hormones. Proteins will help in this. Taking sufficient amounts of protein while pregnant, is thus very necessary. Protein sources include lean beef, yogurt, eggs, and beans.

  1. Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are full of antioxidants that help fight free radicals that are responsible for brain tissue damage. Incorporate lots of dark leafy vegetables in your diet and fruits such as papayas (paw paw), spinach, and blue berries.

  1. Folic Acid

Folic acid is essential for brain cell formation. It also ensures that the spine is in shape. There are available folic acid supplements, and also, there are foods you may take that are rich in folic acid. Green leafy vegetables and fortified cereals are but some of the sources of folic acid.

  1. Iron

While pregnant, doubling your iron is necessary if you want the baby to be smart. Iron is important for the transportation of oxygen to the baby. It also improves your baby’s IQ and growth. Chicken, lean beef, and legumes are some of the foods that are rich in iron. Ask your doctor to test your iron levels to determine exactly how much iron you require. This will help rule out anemia.  He/ she should monitor your pregnancy week by week to ensure the baby is developing as it should.

 

  1. Eggs

Choline found in eggs has been shown to aid in brain development and function. Two eggs provide about half the amount of choline recommended in pregnant women. Eggs are also excellent sources of protein and iron which as we have seen are essential for the brain development of the baby.

  1. Oranges and pineapples

These fruits are rich in vitamin C; that is the development of brain development. They also aid in the recovery of the baby’s skin tone and reduce mothers dull complexion as well. Pineapples work in the same manner. Ensure you take at least a cup of orange or pineapple juice once a week.

  1. Iodine

Iodine is important to ensure that you don’t develop thyroid problems during and after pregnancy. This is both risky for your health and the fetus as well. A thyroid hormone screening is important for all pregnant mothers. Your doctors will advice you accordingly after that. Iodine can be found in yogurt, milk and iodized salt.

  1. Vitamin D

Language development of the baby is important. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy will make the baby have severe language troubles in school. It is also important for the development of the central nervous system of the baby. The greatest source of vitamin D is sunlight that is readily available in most parts of the world.

  1. Calcium

Calcium is an essential mineral for the growth of the baby especially the bones. Deficiency of calcium will affect the baby body and brain development. If you are looking to have a healthy baby with a high IQ, incorporate foods rich in calcium such as milk.

The foundation of the baby’s intelligence and smartness start when in the womb. A big percentage of the baby’s personality, physical and mental attributes are built in this stage. It is thus a very important stage in his/ her life. What you eat during pregnancy greatly affects these factors. A healthy diet will also keep you strong and reduce the probabilities of miscarrying. There are other factors that may affect the baby’s IQ such as the age of the parents, medication, stress and the mother’s mental state. Consult your doctor on these risk factors and deal with them accordingly.  Ensure you take sufficient amounts of things mentioned above if you want your baby to be smart and most importantly help the baby grow and keep you strong during this time.

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By Evlin Symon
Freelance health writer from New-Jersey.

Evlin loves to read and write about best skin brightening creams. She specializes in health, Skincare, beauty, weight loss and fitness. When she is not writing, she can usually be found reading a good book Follow her on Facebook and Google+.

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