Pregnancy Nutritionists and Dietitians in M9A

Photo of Theresa Silverthorn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Theresa Silverthorn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
6 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(289) 271-3480 View (289) 271-3480

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Markham, ON L3R
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition for people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, eating disorders, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, and more. I have worked in acute care hospital settings, outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens your relationship with food.
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a Registered Dietitian with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition for people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic and acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, eating disorders, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, fad diets (keto), weight management, IBS, and more. I have worked in acute care hospital settings, outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens your relationship with food.
(289) 276-7737 View (289) 276-7737
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
6 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(289) 276-6973 View (289) 276-6973
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(289) 723-1959 View (289) 723-1959
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(365) 544-5153 View (365) 544-5153
Photo of Bianca Santaromita-Villa, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CBC
Bianca Santaromita-Villa
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CBC
Online Only
I am a Registered Dietitian who specializes in conditions affecting the female body (e.g. PCOS, pregnancy, perinatal, etc) and children (family nutrition, growth concerns, infant nutrition, introduction to solids, etc).
If you are pregnant or a parent and would like to focus on your family's nutrition needs while protecting your relationship with food and body, please reach out! Pregnancy Topics: Managing symptoms, Optimizing Nutrition status & Gestational diabetes. Postpartum Topics: Infant + Parent Nutrition- I am a Certified Breastfeeding Counsellor
I am a Registered Dietitian who specializes in conditions affecting the female body (e.g. PCOS, pregnancy, perinatal, etc) and children (family nutrition, growth concerns, infant nutrition, introduction to solids, etc).
If you are pregnant or a parent and would like to focus on your family's nutrition needs while protecting your relationship with food and body, please reach out! Pregnancy Topics: Managing symptoms, Optimizing Nutrition status & Gestational diabetes. Postpartum Topics: Infant + Parent Nutrition- I am a Certified Breastfeeding Counsellor
(343) 453-4584 View (343) 453-4584
Photo of Jana Dergham, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Jana Dergham
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Online Only
Hi, I'm Jana! I offer an integrated and holistic approach to nutrition, focusing on long-lasting results. I believe in the profound influence nutrition has on mental, emotional, and physical health, and I help clients uncover the root causes of their nutritional challenges by offering tailored strategies that align with their personal goals. I create personalized, evidence-based strategies that address both the physical and emotional aspects of eating, helping clients build sustainable, healthy relationships with food that last a lifetime.
Hi, I'm Jana! I offer an integrated and holistic approach to nutrition, focusing on long-lasting results. I believe in the profound influence nutrition has on mental, emotional, and physical health, and I help clients uncover the root causes of their nutritional challenges by offering tailored strategies that align with their personal goals. I create personalized, evidence-based strategies that address both the physical and emotional aspects of eating, helping clients build sustainable, healthy relationships with food that last a lifetime.
(365) 536-1318 View (365) 536-1318
Photo of Bradie Hutton, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Bradie Hutton
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Online Only
I’m a registered dietitian with 7+ years of experience in women’s health, supporting people through PCOS, hormone concerns, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, gut health, and emotional eating.
In working together, we'll explore the "why" behind your symptoms. I provide evidence based nutrition advice and offer practical tools so you can make informed, empowered choices. We'll always focus on sustainable approaches over quick fixes, so you can enjoy food without rigid food rules or diet culture pressures.
I’m a registered dietitian with 7+ years of experience in women’s health, supporting people through PCOS, hormone concerns, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, gut health, and emotional eating.
In working together, we'll explore the "why" behind your symptoms. I provide evidence based nutrition advice and offer practical tools so you can make informed, empowered choices. We'll always focus on sustainable approaches over quick fixes, so you can enjoy food without rigid food rules or diet culture pressures.
(437) 475-4046 View (437) 475-4046
Photo of Vanessa Hurley - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
We love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
We love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
(289) 312-3565 View (289) 312-3565
Photo of Niloufar (Nilou) Deilami, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD
Niloufar (Nilou) Deilami
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you looking for support for PCOS, fertility, menopause, pregnancy nutrition, IBS, diabetes, or heart healthy eating ?
I use a combination clinical expertise, education, behaviour change strategies, and empathy to help you reach your goals. My approach is personalized, culturally sensitive, and compassionate. My goal is to create a safe space for you to share your concerns and work towards your goals.
Are you looking for support for PCOS, fertility, menopause, pregnancy nutrition, IBS, diabetes, or heart healthy eating ?
I use a combination clinical expertise, education, behaviour change strategies, and empathy to help you reach your goals. My approach is personalized, culturally sensitive, and compassionate. My goal is to create a safe space for you to share your concerns and work towards your goals.
(289) 807-4265 View (289) 807-4265
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
I love working with individuals across the lifespan & have experience with chronic disease prevention (diabetes, heart health, cancer), women’s health ( pregnancy, fertility, PCOS, menopause), infant/child/teen health (introduction to solids, feeding relationship, selective eating), special dietary restrictions, allergies/intolerances & digestive concerns.
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(343) 655-0646 View (343) 655-0646
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5J
have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings.
I have worked as a Clinical Lead Dietitian in acute care and outpatient settings. I am also a Pediatric Nutrition Specialist and member of the eating disorder team involved in developing treatment protocols for both pediatric and adult populations.
have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings.
I have worked as a Clinical Lead Dietitian in acute care and outpatient settings. I am also a Pediatric Nutrition Specialist and member of the eating disorder team involved in developing treatment protocols for both pediatric and adult populations.
(548) 708-0455 View (548) 708-0455
Photo of Melissa Koch - Bloom Nutrition Services - Melissa Koch, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD
Bloom Nutrition Services - Melissa Koch
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD
Toronto, ON M4J
I’m a Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of experience specializing in nutrition for individuals who are trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or navigating the postpartum period. I also work closely with parents to support the nutritional needs of their children. I’m passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care throughout every stage of the reproductive and parenting journey.
I’m a Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of experience specializing in nutrition for individuals who are trying to conceive, currently pregnant, or navigating the postpartum period. I also work closely with parents to support the nutritional needs of their children. I’m passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care throughout every stage of the reproductive and parenting journey.
(365) 832-6431 View (365) 832-6431
Photo of Catherine Lin Rd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Catherine Lin Rd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
5 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Accepting NEW patients-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
Accepting NEW patients-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
(289) 312-4847 View (289) 312-4847
Photo of Lisa Makeeva, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MAN, RD, CPT, CYT
Lisa Makeeva
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MAN, RD, CPT, CYT
Vaughan, ON L4K
Lisa is a functional registered dietitian who is passionate about helping clients who are struggling with autoimmune disease, imbalanced hormones, blood sugar issues, and digestive woes. Using a whole-foods approach, Lisa's goal is to encourage the body's own natural healing through correcting nutrient deficiencies, restoring digestion, balancing blood sugars, and stress management.
Lisa is a functional registered dietitian who is passionate about helping clients who are struggling with autoimmune disease, imbalanced hormones, blood sugar issues, and digestive woes. Using a whole-foods approach, Lisa's goal is to encourage the body's own natural healing through correcting nutrient deficiencies, restoring digestion, balancing blood sugars, and stress management.
(289) 206-9975 View (289) 206-9975
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Theresa Silverthorn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M6G
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(647) 360-9366 View (647) 360-9366
Photo of Misha Roy - CBT Wellness and Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness and Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T
Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness.
Whether your goal is managing a chronic condition, exploring intuitive eating or reconnecting with cultural food traditions, I’ll guide you with evidence-based strategies & compassion every step of the way. I have helped many individuals manage their chronic health conditions, feel more confident with food while building healthy & sustainable habits.
Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness.
Whether your goal is managing a chronic condition, exploring intuitive eating or reconnecting with cultural food traditions, I’ll guide you with evidence-based strategies & compassion every step of the way. I have helped many individuals manage their chronic health conditions, feel more confident with food while building healthy & sustainable habits.
(289) 275-4567 View (289) 275-4567
Photo of Andrea Holwegner - Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
Confused by all the nutrition advice out there? Struggling with emotional eating, digestive issues, or a health condition? Frustrated by diets that don’t work or feel impossible to stick to? You're not alone. At Health Stand Nutrition, we know that eating well isn’t just about food—it’s about real-life challenges, emotions, and habits. That’s why our Registered Dietitians take a compassionate, no-nonsense approach to help you build a healthy and joyous relationship with food—without guilt, extreme rules, or restrictions.
Confused by all the nutrition advice out there? Struggling with emotional eating, digestive issues, or a health condition? Frustrated by diets that don’t work or feel impossible to stick to? You're not alone. At Health Stand Nutrition, we know that eating well isn’t just about food—it’s about real-life challenges, emotions, and habits. That’s why our Registered Dietitians take a compassionate, no-nonsense approach to help you build a healthy and joyous relationship with food—without guilt, extreme rules, or restrictions.
(800) 268-9487 View (800) 268-9487
Photo of Julia Stanislavskaia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MScFN, BSc
Julia Stanislavskaia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MScFN, BSc
1 Endorsed
Toronto, ON M5G
If you are feeling unwell due to digestive symptoms, inflammation, fatigue, migraines, discomfort with your body and weight or mental health issues and feel that your problems may be related to food, contact me to explore how I can help you. I counsel on a wide variety of health issues from food sensitivities and eating disorders to weight management and heart health, among others. I work with people of all ages and have extensive experience in assessing and supporting complex patients with multiple conditions.
If you are feeling unwell due to digestive symptoms, inflammation, fatigue, migraines, discomfort with your body and weight or mental health issues and feel that your problems may be related to food, contact me to explore how I can help you. I counsel on a wide variety of health issues from food sensitivities and eating disorders to weight management and heart health, among others. I work with people of all ages and have extensive experience in assessing and supporting complex patients with multiple conditions.
(647) 371-5843 View (647) 371-5843
Photo of Dawn Peacock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD
Dawn Peacock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BSc, RD
Toronto, ON M7A
Specialty: Women’s Health, Weight Concerns, Emotional Eating, Menopause, Celiac Disease, Disordered Eating, Mental Health, ADHD, Autism, Bone Health, Meal Planning. Warm, genuine, and down-to-earth, Dawn Peacock is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience helping clients simplify nutrition, reduce food stress, and build confidence in their eating habits. Known for her practical, compassionate approach, Dawn helps clients cut through the noise around food and find realistic strategies that work in everyday life. She’s recognized for her ability to turn complex nutrition science into practical, doable steps.
Specialty: Women’s Health, Weight Concerns, Emotional Eating, Menopause, Celiac Disease, Disordered Eating, Mental Health, ADHD, Autism, Bone Health, Meal Planning. Warm, genuine, and down-to-earth, Dawn Peacock is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience helping clients simplify nutrition, reduce food stress, and build confidence in their eating habits. Known for her practical, compassionate approach, Dawn helps clients cut through the noise around food and find realistic strategies that work in everyday life. She’s recognized for her ability to turn complex nutrition science into practical, doable steps.
(587) 741-9727 View (587) 741-9727
Pregnancy Nutritionists and Dietitians
What should I eat during pregnancy?
A healthy and balanced diet during pregnancy is crucial for both maternal and child health, and it supports recovery and breastfeeding in the postpartum period. It is important to consume a variety of nutrient-rich foods, including whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. These foods provide essential nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy, such as folic acid found in beans, eggs, and spinach, which supports the development of the baby's brain and spinal cord. Additionally, breastfeeding women typically burn an extra 300 calories per day on average, so it is important to ensure an adequate calorie intake to meet this increased demand.

What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
Nutrition experts generally advise women to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and high-sugar foods during pregnancy. It is also recommended that postpartum mothers avoid foods that contain high levels of harmful chemicals, which may negatively impact a newborn's development if passed on to them; specifically, the FDA thus recommends that women limit consumption of high-mercury fish, such as tuna, mackerel, swordfish, and shark. In addition, pregnant women should not consume raw or potentially undercooked meats and seafood, which may contain bacteria that can harm the fetus and put the mother at greater risk of developing a foodborne illness.

Can nutrition help with pregnancy symptoms?
Nutrition plays a key role in pregnancy, and can significantly impact common symptoms of pregnancy—such as nausea, vomiting, and appetite changes. Experts usually recommend that women focus on consuming a balanced diet as much as possible when pregnant. However, some women with extreme morning sickness or similar symptoms may need to focus on consuming more bland foods, such as plain toast, applesauce, rice, or oatmeal, in order to manage symptoms. In addition, eating small but frequent meals can help reduce symptoms for many women, as can drinking an adequate amount of water. In some cases, if women are unable to meet their nutrient needs, such as their folic acid intake, through their diet due to pregnancy symptoms, they may choose to take supplements to ensure that they are still meeting their nutrient needs.

Should pregnant mothers see a dietitian?
Many pregnant women may find it beneficial to consult with a dietitian. While OB/GYNs can address general dietary questions during pregnancy, dietitians specializing in pregnancy nutrition can offer valuable support for those with specific nutrition-related concerns. OB/GYNs often maintain lists of recommended dietitians who specialize in pregnancy, providing a useful resource for pregnant women if needed. Dietitians can be particularly helpful for women experiencing issues like severe food intolerances or nausea. They can assess whether these symptoms are within normal ranges or require further medical attention. Additionally, dietitians can help pregnant women identify foods that alleviate pregnancy-related symptoms such as nausea, and ensure they consume a diverse range of foods to maintain a balanced diet throughout pregnancy.