There is nothing so precious as life and nothing more treasured than health. A pregnant woman is responsible for two lives, and good nutrition has traditionally been an important part of pregnancy. Nutrition is the process by which the food you eat is converted into all the nutrients that are used in the growth, maintenance and repair of all the cells of both you and your baby's body.

Good nutrition should be part of your everyday life. Even before you become aware of your pregnancy or have it confirmed, a new life is being formed within you with amazing speed and is being nourished by the nutrients stored in your body. How you care for yourself in those early days can influence the development of your baby.

Many women become more radiant and beautiful during pregnancy. This is a special beauty, which comes from a healthy body, not from cosmetics. Good nutrition helps provide the clear skin, shiny hair, good digestion and energy that are essential elements of true beauty.

Newborns who have received good nourishment during pregnancy are likely to be healthier at birth, have a normal birth weight, be delivered at full term, and enjoy better health during infancy. Babies born to malnourished women are likely to weigh less than other babies. If the birth weight is Less than 5½ pounds, the first year of life will probably be more difficult. Statistics show that poor nutrition during pregnancy may cause babies to be stillborn, premature or infection-prone. Malnourishment before or shortly after birth is thought to result in the production of fewer brain cells.

Women who are properly nourished before and during pregnancy are more likely to experience normal, uncomplicated labors and deliveries. Research shows that women who are or have been inadequately nourished tend to have more complications during pregnancy. An inadequate diet can interfere with implantation and growth of the fertilized egg, resulting in miscarriage. An insufficient amount of iron, protein and vitamins can bring on anemia. Some studies conclude insufficient protein and vitamins in the diet may cause toxemia. Research indicates that women who receive good nutrition recover more quickly, both physically and emotionally, after the birth of their baby. For the breastfeeding mother, adequate nutrition contributes to her success by improving the quality and quantity of her milk.

Developing good eating habits contributes to your family's health. The nutrients your baby receives are what you alone can give. It is essential that you not only eat properly during pregnancy, but at all times. Your eating habits teach your children the principles of good nutrition, which influence not only their individual well-being, but the health of their children. Make every calorie count. Try to avoid foods with low nutrient density.

The possibilities are unlimited for planning nutritious meals and snacks. Try to plan your menus by the week so you can convert your food servings into their nutritional equivalents. Whatever your special tastes, you can provide meals that are nutritious to your family, and most importantly, to you and the new life you carry in your body. For additional information on nutrition during pregnancy view program #00190, "Nutrition During Pregnancy for Mother & Child".