A suggestive list for food items that helps to maintain good health and promote the healthy development of the fetus are mentioned below-

• Iron-rich foods- Iron is an essential nutrient that aids in maintaining blood flow in the pregnant female`s body as well as to the developing fetus. Maintaining a good level of healthy red blood cells (i.e. cells rich in hemoglobin) is very important for the development of the baby. Eating foods rich in iron such as spinach, lentils, beans, and dry fruits ensure a continued flow of healthy RBCs in the body. Patients suffering from excessive iron deficiency may even be prescribed additional supplements such as orofer xt, irozorb tablet, ferox xt in order to fulfill the daily needs of the pregnant female.
• Dairy products- In order to make up for the additional nutritive requirement of the developing fetus, it is very important for the pregnant female to consume food items that are rich in calcium and protein.

Dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and butter are considered excellent sources of both protein and calcium. They are known to contain two popular types of proteins namely whey and casein. Along with being one of the best dietary sources of calcium, dairy products are also rich in phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, and multiple types of vitamin B.   

Yogurt is the most commonly consumed dairy product. It is known to be a good source of healthy bacteria. Not only does it ensure the proper functioning of the digestive system and keep the pregnant female`s stomach healthy, but it also boosts immunity.

• Legumes- This category of food items includes pulses, soybean, chickpea, peanuts, beans, peas, and lentils. They contain high levels of calcium, folate plant-based fiber, iron, and All these nutrients are essential for the overall development of the fetus.

• Bananas- Banana can be characterized as a pregnancy superfood. Along with being a rich source of potassium, it also helps in keeping fatigue and low energy pangs at bay. Bananas are also known to be beneficial for the development of the baby’s brain and nervous system as it contains vital minerals, fatty acids, carbohydrates, dietary fiber and, vitamin B and They also contain pectin which is known to normalize digestion. Eating bananas regularly also help in treating nausea and morning sickness during pregnancy.

Being an excellent source of folic acid, bananas help in overcoming and treating anemia during pregnancy. It also helps in preventing birth defects and premature delivery caused due to a deficiency of folic acid or anemia.  

• Tomato- Tomatoes are very nutritive by nature. This fruit has numerous health benefits pertaining to the skin as well as the internal functions of the body. Pregnant females are recommended to inculcate tomatoes in the daily diet in order to regulate the sugar levels in the body, maintain blood pressure levels and ensure good heart health. Tomatoes also help in protecting the eyes against damage due to its antioxidant properties. Being an excellent source of Vitamin C, tomatoes help in regulating the production of collagen in the body. This helps in maintaining healthy and firm skin, nails, hair and tissues connecting various cells. Tomatoes contain 95% water and some amount of fiber which helps in regulating the bowel movements and keeping the body hydrated. All these properties make it a wonderful food item to be consumed by pregnant females.
• Oats- This is a fulfilling and healthy meal option for pregnant females. The fiber content in oats is very high because of which they help in maintaining a smooth bowel movement as well as maintaining stomach health. It is a nutritive meal option that is light on the stomach and easy to digest. This wholefood helps in reducing and maintaining low levels of cholesterol.
• Green Leafy Vegetables- Lettuce, spinach, kale, and broccoli are all types of green leafy vegetables which are known to be a great source of energy for the body. These food items contain flavonoids in high amounts. This food group aids in carrying out daily functions with ease. They also help the body to recover from stress, exertion, and strain on the muscles. Anemia is a condition that occurs in most pregnant females. Consuming these vegetables helps in preventing or overcoming anemia as well as boost the person`s immunity.

The above-mentioned foods are a rich source of various nutrients required by the female body during pregnancy to carry out the daily functions as well as for the development of the fetus.

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