How your baby vegetable grows healthy
The test is positive, you're over the moon, and then, because you're vegan, you wonder: Is that even possible? Will my baby get everything it needs?
I can put your mind at ease, because the answer is simple. Yes! Basically, there's nothing wrong with it.
This is also confirmed by numerous major nutrition societies, for example from the USA, Canada, Australia, and Great Britain. However, and this is the "but," you do have to pay attention to a few things. That's precisely why our DGE (German Nutrition Society) doesn't recommend it either.
Of course, there are nutrients that the fetus needs for healthy growth, regardless of the mother's diet. For example, iron requirements increase by about half during pregnancy. Therefore, you should continue to focus on certain nutrients and ensure you're getting enough. Your need for vitamin B12 also increases, so you should temporarily take a higher-dose supplement. However, there are also nutrients that vegans usually don't have problems with, as their intake is often better than that of omnivores; folate, for example.
Therefore, before you take supplements indiscriminately, it is definitely advisable to have a blood test done to check all critical nutrients and also to plan for another test during the course of the pregnancy.
The common saying "eating for two" is outdated and inappropriate, as your calorie needs don't double during pregnancy. A serving of porridge and an extra slice of bread in the evening is sufficient to start with. From the second trimester onward, you can add a handful more vegetables. A weight gain of 10-16 kg is perfectly normal, as accumulating excess weight during pregnancy can negatively impact the birth process and your baby's later development.
If you're unsure which nutrients you need to keep an eye on and how to implement that in your daily life, it's best to consult a vegan nutritionist. They can best address all your questions individually, so you can enjoy your pregnancy with peace of mind, knowing your baby has everything it needs.
Your Ricarda
from family vegetables