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  Last Seven Days' Health News
Health Tip: Preparing for Pregnancy

What's needed in your diet, and what you should avoid

(HealthDay News) -- At least three months before you try to get pregnant, you should start making sure that your body has the nutrients it needs to conceive a healthy baby.

The American Pregnancy Association offers these recommendations:

  • Make sure you get at least 400 micrograms of folate or folic acid each day, either from your diet or from a supplement.
  • Get at least 1,000 milligrams per day of calcium -- the equivalent of three 8-ounce glasses of skim milk.
  • Talk to your doctor about taking a special vitamin for women who are pregnant or are likely to become pregnant.
  • Reduce -- to no more than 300 milligrams daily -- your intake of caffeine, which can affect fertility and the body's ability to absorb calcium and iron.
  • Avoid alcohol, drugs, cigarettes and artificial sweeteners.

Attribution: -- Diana Kohnle
Copyright © 2008 ScoutNews, LLC Exit Disclaimer. All rights reserved.

HealthDayNews articles are derived from various sources and do not reflect federal policy.
omhrc.gov does not endorse opinions, products, or services that may appear in news stories.
Content Last Modified: 9/12/2008 9:00:00 AM
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