MS, RD, LDN, CBS
Janel holds a Master’s in Nutrition Communication from Tufts University. As the recipient of the 2010 Massachusetts Young Dietitian of the Year award, she believes in making healthy eating simple, sustainable, and delicious.
By this point, you have likely heard that what you eat during pregnancy can have a big impact on both your and your baby’s health. But did you know that there are certain nutrients that can specifically help with baby’s brain development? Choline, DHA, and Iron are all essential to baby’s brain development. However, many sources of choline, DHA, and iron are not plant based. So vegetarians need to be extra diligent about including the below sources of the brain boosting nutrients in their diets to ensure adequate intake.
Choline: Choline is essential in pregnancy since your body cannot make it in adequate amounts. It plays a role in infant brain development, learning, and memory function. Pregnant moms need more choline since it is transferred to the baby. Vegetarian sources include: milk, peanuts, beans, collard greens, brussels sprouts, swiss chard, cauliflower, and spinach (and if you chose to consume eggs – egg yolks are an excellent source).
Iron: We need extra iron during pregnancy to make more blood to supply oxygen to baby. Additionally, baby uses iron to build up stores that he relies on until six months of age . Too little iron can be problematic for baby’s brain development and leave you anemic. Our body relies on dietary intake as we cannot make iron. Vegetarian sources include: lentils, tofu, beans, dark leafy green vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fortified grains (cereals, breads, pastas). Try pairing these food items with a source of vitamin C to help with absorption.
DHA: DHA is an essential Omega-3 fatty acid involved in the development of the brain, nervous system, and retina – it’s especially important in fetal, infant, and early childhood growth. DHA is found mainly in fish, particularly wild salmon, sardines, mussels, and rainbow trout. If you do not eat fish, look for DHA fortified foods as some foods are now being fortified with DHA, such as milk, eggs, yogurt, and soy milk, but be sure to check the package.
Taking a plant-based DHA supplement while pregnant and nursing will help to ensure you’re meeting your and your baby’s needs. Speak with your doctor before starting any supplement.
Vitamin C rich foods (citrus, peppers, etc) will help your body absorb iron. Make sure to also include Vitamin C rich foods in your diet. Selecting meals and snacks from the below listed options will help you choose vegetarian friendly foods that provide DHA, choline, or iron.
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Our Happy Family Organic Superfoods Cookbook for Baby & Toddler is chock-full of yummy, easy-to-prepare meals your whole family will love.