The 5 Golden Rules of Pregnancy Food Safety

Breastfeeding Basics for New Mothers

The 5 Golden Rules of Pregnancy Food Safety

Simple habits that help keep you and your baby safe.

1

COOK IT

Avoid raw or undercooked meat, eggs and seafood.

2

WASH IT

Wash fruits, vegetables and hands properly.

3

PASTEURISE IT

Choose pasteurised milk and dairy products.

4

CHILL IT

Refrigerate perishable food promptly.

5

CHOOSE IT

Avoid alcohol and high-mercury fish; limit caffeine.

❤️ What SHOULD You Eat More of During Pregnancy?

Think variety, not “eating for two”! Your nutrient needs rise more than your calorie needs, so focus on nutrient-dense foods.

🌱 1st Trimester

Nourish, Even If Appetite Is Low

Nausea can make eating difficult, so go for small, frequent meals and prioritise:

  • Protein
  • Folate & Iron
  • Calcium
  • Fruits & Vegetables
  • Whole Grains
  • Healthy Fats
Tip: If vomiting is severe or you can't keep fluids down, seek medical advice.

🌸 2nd Trimester

Build & Grow

Focus especially on protein, iron, calcium and overall variety.

Add Vitamin-C-rich foods such as:

  • Lemon
  • Amla
  • Guava
  • Oranges
  • Tomatoes

Pair these with plant-based iron sources to improve iron absorption.

🤰 3rd Trimester

Support Growth & Stay Comfortable

Prioritise:

  • Protein
  • Iron
  • Calcium
  • Fibre
  • Fluids

Fibre and hydration can also help with constipation.

🐟 Fish & Omega-3s

If you eat fish, choose low-mercury varieties for omega-3s. Vegetarian sources like walnuts, chia and flax provide ALA; DHA supplements may be recommended in some women.

🥗 Your Pregnancy Plate — Keep It Simple

Build balanced meals using a variety of nutrient-rich foods.

🥚 Protein

Eggs • Dal • Beans • Paneer • Chicken • Fish

🥬 Vegetables

Leafy vegetables + colourful vegetables

🍎 Fruits

Fresh + properly washed fruits

🌾 Carbohydrates

Whole grains • Roti • Rice • Oats • Millets

🥜 Healthy Fats

Nuts • Seeds • Nut Butters

🥛 Calcium

Milk • Curd • Paneer

Easy Formula

½ Plate
Vegetables + Fruit
¼ Plate
Protein
¼ Plate
Whole Grains / Starchy Foods
💊 Food supports pregnancy — but prescribed Folic Acid, Iron, Calcium, Vitamin D and other supplements should still be taken as advised.
Pregnancy is not a list of foods you can't eat. It's about choosing safe, well-prepared, nutritious food — while ignoring unnecessary food myths.

Eat well. Eat varied. Eat safely. ❤️