Lifestyle and how it can Affect Your Pregnancy.

Nutrition.

Common sense is your best guide - you should have something from each of the following food groups every day.

1. Milk and dairy products.
2. Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts and beans
3. Wholegrain or enriched bread and cereal
4. Fruits and vegetables

Today the government recommends that all women of childbearing age should be told about folic acid and how to obtain it, because research shows that, neural tube defects, such as spina bifida and hydrocephalus, may be prevented by taking the folic acid vitamin.

A healthy adult needs 200µg (0.2mg) of folic acid every day, but women who are considering pregnancy need to take more - an extra 400µg (0.4mg) to make a total of 600µg (0.6mg) - This can be bought over the counter at any pharmacy.

Other Toxins that can Harm a Pregnancy.

Exposure to harmful chemical and toxins can affect the unborn baby. For example, if you work regularly with chemicals or around x-rays, you should take extra precautions to avoid exposure before and during your pregnancy. (continued next page)