Food, Nutrition and Pregnancy

Does what I eat while I am pregnant really matter?

Yes! Your baby needs nutrition to form a healthy brain, strong bones and muscles.

• Eat more healthy food: fruits, vegetables, grains, pasteurized dairy products, lean meats, and beans.

• Eat less high calorie, nutritionally empty items like cookies, chips, candy, etc. These foods are high in

fat, salt and calories and low in the nutrients needed to help your baby grow.

• Ask your healthcare provider about foods you should avoid altogether.

• “Eating for two” does not mean to consistently overindulge. It means choosing nutritious foods for

you and your baby.

How am I supposed to eat healthy food when it costs so much?

• One way to get healthy food is to sign up for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children, also known as WIC. WIC benefits can be used at grocery stores and pharmacies

so that you can access healthy foods.

What is WIC?

• WIC is a nutrition program for women, infants and children.

• WIC supports pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5.

• The WIC food package is worth $30-$112 or more per month per person.

WIC can also help you learn more about:

• Nutritious food intake during pregnancy.

• The importance of prenatal vitamins.

• Breastfeeding.

• What to do if you or your baby have special nutritional risks (food allergy, anemia, obesity,

gestational diabetes, a food disorder, etc.).

• Support groups such as breastfeeding support and community or parenting groups.

To find your local WIC agency, visit MDHHS WIC www.Michigan.gov/WIC or call 2-1-1.

What do I do if I run out of food before I am able to buy more?

• Have a back-up plan in case you get low on food. Your baby needs nutritious food every day.

• Find out about food banks and other emergency food programs in your area.