By Hope Ricciotti, MD

Three Scrumptious dishes that will boost your health – as well as your baby’s!

In recent years, we have learned a great deal about what constitutes a healthy diet during pregnancy. Several nutrients have been shown to prevent birth defects, and to help ensure the health of both mother and baby, during pregnancy and beyond.

Your doctor advises you to eat healthfully during pregnancy…

Will anything help nausea? Which nutrients enhance your baby’s growth? Can some foods do harm? How can you satisfy your cravings sensibly? What you should know about your diet during pregnancy

You want to do the right thing for you and your baby, and sometimes making simple substitutions in your diet can mean much healthier meals.

Nothing says summer like picnics and barbecues. And with just a few switches and substitutions, you can feature healthier fare — beginning at your next cookout.

Whatever you decide, eating foods in their natural, unprocessed forms is a good idea. Organic foods are increasingly available in many grocery stores, and even in some convenience stores.

You should know that your health and your baby’s are linked, and that a good, nutritious diet can benefit both of you.