Pregnancy Signs & Symptoms, Week by Week Pregnancy Guide

When pregnant, the foods you eat tend to directly reach to your baby and affect the development and growth of the life growing inside you. It is important to eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean protein and whole grains etc.

These foods not only help in the physical development of the baby but also the development of the brain.  However if you wish to concentrate upon eating those foods which can directly help the development of the brain, then the following given list will surely be of great use to you:

Fortified Cereals

Fortified cereals consist of a lot of micronutrients which are essential for proper fetal brain development. Some of these nutrients include folic acid, chlorine, iron, and fiber. Collectively, these nutrients help to prevent spina bifida and other kinds of neural rube defects.  The iron is great for the brain development of the fetus. It is important to choose a fortified cereal which is low on sugar and high in fiber content.

Fish

Fish contain a lot of omega 3 fatty acids which are again necessary for optimal brain development.  It is important for pregnant women to consume fish high on these acids regularly.  One to two servings of fish per week is an ideal amount and provides enough DHA for brain development without exposing the mother and baby to very high levels of mercury or other kinds of toxins.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds consist of a lot of omega 3 fatty acids which are important for the brain development of both the fetus and the mother.  Nuts and seeds are also packed with Vitamin B6 which too is a micronutrient which is brain boosting.  This vitamin helps in normal functioning by playing the role of a chemical messenger between the cells of the brain.  Walnuts are particularly important and can be added to meals every day.

Sea Vegetables

Sea vegetables such as seaweed nori prove to be an excellent source of iodine which is a nutrient that assists the brain as well as spinal cord development.  This nutrient also prevents mental retardation. Sea vegetables are also packed with chlorine, folic acid and omega 3 fats.  Thus sea vegetables too boost brain development in many ways.  But pregnant women must avoid brown sea vegetables like hijiki because it consists of a high amount of arsenic which can be harmful.

Dark Leafy Greens

Eating dark leafy greens too is important for the brain development of the baby. They consist of folate which is a B vitamin that can ensure that the brain and spinal cord develop normally.  One can add green leafy vegetables by eating a lot of salads and as side portions.

Egg Yolks

Egg yolk is loaded with chorine which too is a B vitamin which is important for the optimal development of the brain of the baby growing inside the womb of the mother and is recommended.