Pregnancy Nutritionists and Dietitians in Oceanside, NY

Photo of Jeanette Giacinto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Jeanette Giacinto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
Are you struggling with weight management, hormone balance, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms? If you have IBS, poor energy levels, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, or fertility issues, you are not alone. I am passionate about empowering you to overcome these issues and reclaim confidence in your health journey. Imagine a life where you feel revitalized, free from PMS, acne, anxiety, and digestive discomfort. Picture the energy and vitality you'll gain. As your dedicated functional medicine dietitian, my mission is to guide you towards lasting well-being inside and out.
Are you struggling with weight management, hormone balance, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms? If you have IBS, poor energy levels, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, or fertility issues, you are not alone. I am passionate about empowering you to overcome these issues and reclaim confidence in your health journey. Imagine a life where you feel revitalized, free from PMS, acne, anxiety, and digestive discomfort. Picture the energy and vitality you'll gain. As your dedicated functional medicine dietitian, my mission is to guide you towards lasting well-being inside and out.
(516) 774-1199 View (516) 774-1199
Photo of Gigi Ravenhall, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Gigi Ravenhall
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
As a Dietitian and owner of Morning Bird Nutrition, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their unique health journeys, whether it's managing chronic conditions, achieving weight goals, improving routines and meal planning strategies, or simply building a healthier relationship with food. My approach is personalized and evidence-based, focusing on sustainable strategies that align with your lifestyle and goals.
As a Dietitian and owner of Morning Bird Nutrition, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their unique health journeys, whether it's managing chronic conditions, achieving weight goals, improving routines and meal planning strategies, or simply building a healthier relationship with food. My approach is personalized and evidence-based, focusing on sustainable strategies that align with your lifestyle and goals.
(207) 477-6786 View (207) 477-6786

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Michaela Parr, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Michaela Parr
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Weight management, Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, and Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Hormonal Imbalances, Digestive Problems (IBS, IBD), GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, and Sports Nutrition.
Michaela is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft. She strongly believes that making healthy, sustainable, and nourishing choices take time and a strong partnership between the client and herself. Changes can be difficult and you need a caring partner to help you through them and make them fun. Michaela firmly stands by the idea that being healthy not only includes nutrition, but our mental and physical health as well. Everyone is unique and Michaela believes that nutrition is not one size fits all and she works to create personalized nutrition care for each individual to result in long-lasting change.
Specialties include Weight management, Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, and Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Hormonal Imbalances, Digestive Problems (IBS, IBD), GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, and Sports Nutrition.
Michaela is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft. She strongly believes that making healthy, sustainable, and nourishing choices take time and a strong partnership between the client and herself. Changes can be difficult and you need a caring partner to help you through them and make them fun. Michaela firmly stands by the idea that being healthy not only includes nutrition, but our mental and physical health as well. Everyone is unique and Michaela believes that nutrition is not one size fits all and she works to create personalized nutrition care for each individual to result in long-lasting change.
(504) 386-5852 View (504) 386-5852
Photo of Michelle Murdolo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Michelle Murdolo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Registered dietitian specializing in women's health with a focus on: fertility, pregnancy, postpartum and endocrine disorders.
I help women optimize nutrition to improve fertility and grow a healthy baby. Learn how nutrition can nourish you & baby, reduce pregnancy symptoms, and create generational health.
Registered dietitian specializing in women's health with a focus on: fertility, pregnancy, postpartum and endocrine disorders.
I help women optimize nutrition to improve fertility and grow a healthy baby. Learn how nutrition can nourish you & baby, reduce pregnancy symptoms, and create generational health.
(207) 306-2640 View (207) 306-2640
Photo of Carlyn Rosenblum - MTHR Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
MTHR Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
New York, NY 10010
MTHR Nutrition, is a concierge nutrition service for women and families during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum.
At MTHR Nutrition we believe that high-quality prenatal nutrition is essential to healthy life for both mom and baby. The nine months of pregnancy is the most meaningful period in terms of influencing our health for the rest of our lives.
MTHR Nutrition, is a concierge nutrition service for women and families during pre-conception, pregnancy and postpartum.
At MTHR Nutrition we believe that high-quality prenatal nutrition is essential to healthy life for both mom and baby. The nine months of pregnancy is the most meaningful period in terms of influencing our health for the rest of our lives.
(301) 321-7678 View (301) 321-7678
Photo of Ryann Kipping, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLEC
Ryann Kipping
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CLEC
Serves Area
I help women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or recently postpartum reach optimum health during these extremely important and emotional periods of life.
I offer one on one nutrition counseling sessions that all come with an interactive meal planning tool. All nutrition guidance is individualized and catered to each specific person. All my services are offered virtually.
I help women who are planning a pregnancy, currently pregnant, or recently postpartum reach optimum health during these extremely important and emotional periods of life.
I offer one on one nutrition counseling sessions that all come with an interactive meal planning tool. All nutrition guidance is individualized and catered to each specific person. All my services are offered virtually.
(619) 573-4263 View (619) 573-4263
Photo of Olivia Peduto - Couture Wellness , Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Couture Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Online Only
I specialize in fertility, pregnancy, and infant nutrition because I know how deeply personal—and often overwhelming—this journey can be.
My approach blends clinical expertise with lived experience (yes, I have PCOS too), and I believe in meeting you where you are—without guilt, shame, or restriction. We'll focus on gentle nutrition, hormone balance, and building sustainable habits that support both your mental and physical health.
I specialize in fertility, pregnancy, and infant nutrition because I know how deeply personal—and often overwhelming—this journey can be.
My approach blends clinical expertise with lived experience (yes, I have PCOS too), and I believe in meeting you where you are—without guilt, shame, or restriction. We'll focus on gentle nutrition, hormone balance, and building sustainable habits that support both your mental and physical health.
(619) 350-1374 View (619) 350-1374
Photo of Nicole Holness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
Nicole Holness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
New York, NY 10018
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health.
Each woman’s health journey is unique, and so is my approach. I uncover the root cause of hormone imbalances, fertility issues, or reproductive concerns. My goal is to create a plan that delivers results and empowers you to feel vibrant and confident. Health should be nurtured with compassion and joy—because when you feel good, everything else falls in place
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health.
Each woman’s health journey is unique, and so is my approach. I uncover the root cause of hormone imbalances, fertility issues, or reproductive concerns. My goal is to create a plan that delivers results and empowers you to feel vibrant and confident. Health should be nurtured with compassion and joy—because when you feel good, everything else falls in place
(929) 264-5030 View (929) 264-5030
Photo of Asal Hakim - Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Garden City, NY 11530
All patients accepted: children, adults & elderly for nutrition related issues such as obesity/weight management, diabetes, cardiac health, pregnancy, gastrointestinal issues and cancer.
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC., is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling. Giving you an abundance of practical tips and important resources for optimal eating and living, we use practical lifestyle and preventive approach to improving your health!
All patients accepted: children, adults & elderly for nutrition related issues such as obesity/weight management, diabetes, cardiac health, pregnancy, gastrointestinal issues and cancer.
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC., is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling. Giving you an abundance of practical tips and important resources for optimal eating and living, we use practical lifestyle and preventive approach to improving your health!
(516) 407-7475 View (516) 407-7475
Photo of Kassandra Hale, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Kassandra Hale
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
New York, NY 10007
I’m experienced in addressing nutritional needs for diverse populations; specifically infants, children, prenatal and postnatal care, and lactating people.
I’m driven to educate others about nutrition as I have been, and empower them to overcome whatever barriers are getting in the way of making healthy choices. Ask me about affordable food options, access to healthy foods, and cultural preferences.
I’m experienced in addressing nutritional needs for diverse populations; specifically infants, children, prenatal and postnatal care, and lactating people.
I’m driven to educate others about nutrition as I have been, and empower them to overcome whatever barriers are getting in the way of making healthy choices. Ask me about affordable food options, access to healthy foods, and cultural preferences.
(331) 244-1046 View (331) 244-1046
Photo of Jennifer Shane Medina - Brown & Medina Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CDE
Brown & Medina Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CDE
New York, NY 10022
Our eclectic group of registered dietitians caters to the diverse needs of our patients and collectively specializes in eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating), weight management, pediatric nutrition (failure to thrive, picky eaters, food allergies, epilepsy and weight control), gastrointestinal diseases (IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, reflux), diabetes, sports nutrition, pregnancy related issues & cardiovascular disease.
I am the co-owner of Brown & Medina Nutrition. I work with people of all ages and specialize in eating disorders, pediatric nutrition (failure to thrive,obesity, food allergies, picky eating, epilepsy), weight management for adults, diabetes (I am a certified diabetes educator and insulin pump trainer)and gastrointestinal disorders.
Our eclectic group of registered dietitians caters to the diverse needs of our patients and collectively specializes in eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating), weight management, pediatric nutrition (failure to thrive, picky eaters, food allergies, epilepsy and weight control), gastrointestinal diseases (IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, reflux), diabetes, sports nutrition, pregnancy related issues & cardiovascular disease.
I am the co-owner of Brown & Medina Nutrition. I work with people of all ages and specialize in eating disorders, pediatric nutrition (failure to thrive,obesity, food allergies, picky eating, epilepsy), weight management for adults, diabetes (I am a certified diabetes educator and insulin pump trainer)and gastrointestinal disorders.
(646) 480-6240 View (646) 480-6240
Photo of Jennifer Derfel - Jennifer Derfel Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Jennifer Derfel Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Serves Area
Areas of focus: weight management, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, eating disorders, auto-immune conditions, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, pregnancy/ breastfeeding/ post-partum, women's health, pediatrics.
As a dietitian, I educate, empower and give you the tools needed to create new eating habits, and promote positive lifestyle changes that are sustainable and realistic. With a client centered approach, I provide individualized nutrition counseling people of all ages. There is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to achieving health.
Areas of focus: weight management, diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, eating disorders, auto-immune conditions, cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, pregnancy/ breastfeeding/ post-partum, women's health, pediatrics.
As a dietitian, I educate, empower and give you the tools needed to create new eating habits, and promote positive lifestyle changes that are sustainable and realistic. With a client centered approach, I provide individualized nutrition counseling people of all ages. There is no “one size fits all” solution when it comes to achieving health.
(914) 685-5376 View (914) 685-5376
Photo of Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management. Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management. Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
Photo of Janan S Sayyed, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DC, ND, MSc, DACBN, CDC
Janan S Sayyed
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DC, ND, MSc, DACBN, CDC
New York, NY 10022
We help Nutrition Clients with a Variety of Ailments that they may have such as Weight Loss, Allergies, Cancer, Lupus,Skin Issues, Pregnancy, Kidney, Arthritis, Digestive issues, Pediatrics Weight Loss and much more.
Dr. Janan Sayyed graduated with a Master degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport in 2001. Dr Janan Sayyed successfully graduated with a dual degee in Chiropractic and Naturopathic Medicine(8 year program) in 2002 and 2006. Dr Sayyed holds a Diplomate in Nutrition from the American Board of Nutrition.
We help Nutrition Clients with a Variety of Ailments that they may have such as Weight Loss, Allergies, Cancer, Lupus,Skin Issues, Pregnancy, Kidney, Arthritis, Digestive issues, Pediatrics Weight Loss and much more.
Dr. Janan Sayyed graduated with a Master degree in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport in 2001. Dr Janan Sayyed successfully graduated with a dual degee in Chiropractic and Naturopathic Medicine(8 year program) in 2002 and 2006. Dr Sayyed holds a Diplomate in Nutrition from the American Board of Nutrition.
(917) 557-7437 View (917) 557-7437
Photo of Adiana Castro - Compass Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
Compass Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
New York, NY 10004
What you get from working with us are dietitians specializing in weight management, food sensitivity, controlling blood sugar, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, optimizing athletic performance, appropriate prenatal and maternal weight gain, teaching how to eat, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Do you want a fresh approach to eating without judgment, guilt or all or nothing rules? Our approach is simple: eat what you like, learn to moderate certain foods and make informed food decisions. Together individual, realistic, and measurable goals are set to track your progress and change towards a healthier lifestyle.
What you get from working with us are dietitians specializing in weight management, food sensitivity, controlling blood sugar, lowering blood pressure and cholesterol, optimizing athletic performance, appropriate prenatal and maternal weight gain, teaching how to eat, and maintaining a healthy weight.
Do you want a fresh approach to eating without judgment, guilt or all or nothing rules? Our approach is simple: eat what you like, learn to moderate certain foods and make informed food decisions. Together individual, realistic, and measurable goals are set to track your progress and change towards a healthier lifestyle.
(347) 577-9344 View (347) 577-9344
Photo of Ruth Thompson Murillo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Ruth Thompson Murillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties inclue Bariatrics, Weight Management, Binge Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Diabetes, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, Prenatal and Post Natal Nutrition, Health and Wellness, GI Issues, IBS/IBD, Heart Health, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Fatty Liver Disease, Picky Eating, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 10 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgemental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
Specialties inclue Bariatrics, Weight Management, Binge Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Diabetes, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, Prenatal and Post Natal Nutrition, Health and Wellness, GI Issues, IBS/IBD, Heart Health, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, Fatty Liver Disease, Picky Eating, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, and PCOS.
I am a registered dietitian with over 10 years of experience helping individuals make lifestyle changes to improve their health and achieve their goals. I practice with empathy and understanding in a nonjudgemental environment where you can truly be yourself and trust that you will be fully supported.
(240) 901-4284 View (240) 901-4284
Photo of Silvia Carolina Ross - SRoss Nutrition PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
SRoss Nutrition PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Woodside, NY 11377
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/ breastfeeding/ pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client!
I am the Founder and CEO of SRoss Nutrition PLLC and work as a public speaker, consultant, and personal trainer while studying Naturopathy medicine. I am the author of The Holistic Approach of Weight and Substanability, silviaross.co. I have successful stories in weight loss, pre-DM/DM2, cancer, and other conditions that no longer require medications.
If you are struggling with weight gain, gut issues (constipation/diarrhea), malnutrition, infertility/ breastfeeding/ pregnancy issues, and suffer from chronic diseases such as CVDs, renal diseases, cirrhosis, cancer, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, wound healing problems, or have trouble coping with stress, and if you are seeking a health coach or personal trainer and desire to make lifestyle changes, you are my ideal client!
I am the Founder and CEO of SRoss Nutrition PLLC and work as a public speaker, consultant, and personal trainer while studying Naturopathy medicine. I am the author of The Holistic Approach of Weight and Substanability, silviaross.co. I have successful stories in weight loss, pre-DM/DM2, cancer, and other conditions that no longer require medications.
(914) 415-6489 View (914) 415-6489
Photo of Suzanna Thoe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Suzanna Thoe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
New York, NY 10010
Suzanna has been a RD for almost 4 years and is an expert at pediatric and prenatal nutrition.
A session with Suzanna will make you feel understood and know the WHY behind the science-backed action items that she provides to move you toward your goal. Suzanna is characteristically empathetic and will meet you at whatever level of motivation you are.
Suzanna has been a RD for almost 4 years and is an expert at pediatric and prenatal nutrition.
A session with Suzanna will make you feel understood and know the WHY behind the science-backed action items that she provides to move you toward your goal. Suzanna is characteristically empathetic and will meet you at whatever level of motivation you are.
(630) 757-8162 View (630) 757-8162
Photo of Alexandra Orlan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Alexandra Orlan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in weight loss, gut health and digestion, diabetes, gestational diabetes, pregnancy nutrition, bariatric nutrition, and heart health.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AND CONDUCTING TELE-HEALTH SESSIONS.** Meal prep and weight loss made simple. *Nutrition solutions for busy men and women **Realistic advice with actionable takeaways, meal plans, recipes, goal setting, and more.
I specialize in weight loss, gut health and digestion, diabetes, gestational diabetes, pregnancy nutrition, bariatric nutrition, and heart health.
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS AND CONDUCTING TELE-HEALTH SESSIONS.** Meal prep and weight loss made simple. *Nutrition solutions for busy men and women **Realistic advice with actionable takeaways, meal plans, recipes, goal setting, and more.
(609) 798-2496 View (609) 798-2496
Photo of Jody Halouska, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Jody Halouska
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Serves Area
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
(872) 259-7074 View (872) 259-7074
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.