The word “diet” is derived from a Greek word that means “way of life.” As the New Year approaches many of us will reconsider out diets and make New Year resolutions to improve our “way of life.” When we consider our diets especially during pregnancy, we must keep in the mind the ancient origin of the word; a way of life, and not merely a temporary period of time used to lose weight, grow a baby, etc.
I have learned a lot about the importance of diet as a “way of life” in the last few years. My first pregnancy motivated me to start changing my “way of life.” While it was a slow transition that included a period of regression right after the birth of my son, it became a permanent change in my life. My diet became a way of life for me as I struggled to lose the pounds from my first pregnancy and maintained a more healthy weight gain with my second. Diet during pregnancy is not really about weight gain however. It is about changing one’s “way of life” to grow a new life, part of that is of course weight gain. That diet must differ a little from one’s previous diet. Growing a baby demands more protein, more vitamins, and minerals, and more water!
During my recent pregnancy my diet was an ever present focus. I wanted to make sure that I was eating the most healthful foods possible to ensure that I was doing everything in my power to grow a healthy baby. We bought (and continue to buy) our meat and eggs from local organic farmers. When ever possible we buy our milk and produce locally as well. During my pregnancy I limited treats (only homemade, whole food sweets… nothing processed etc) and kept a food journal to ensure that I was staying on track (especially after over indulging on homemade baked goods).
Because of my commitment to eating as healthful and organic as possible, I experienced a pregnancy that was largely free of discomforts and illness. My weight gain was gradual and kept within the recommended parameters. I gained a total of thirty-two pounds, twenty of which were lost with the birth of my daughter (I had “a big beautiful placenta” to quote my placenta encapsulation specialist). Best of all, I birthed a healthy seven pound nine ounce baby girl in water at home without complication or incidence and I know my diet played a major role.