Nutrition and the New Food Pyramid: Whole Grains

Grains make up foods such as bread, pasta, rice, cereal, and tortillas. Grains are also known as starches. Choose whole grains instead of refined grains. Whole grains provide iron, magnesium, B vitamins, and other nutrients the body needs to function.

Nutrition and the New Food Pyramid: Fruit

Like vegetables, fruit contains fiber and plenty of vitamins. But the great thing about fruit is its flavor. If you have a sweet tooth or just want a little treat, fruit is the healthiest way to indulge.

Eating a Vegetarian Diet

A vegetarian diet is based on plant foods. It includes fruits, vegetables, beans, grains, seeds, and nuts. Some vegetarians also eat dairy foods and eggs.

Improving Your Fertility

Your healthcare provider may suggest some simple methods to help you get pregnant. Most focus on predicting ovulation. This is the time when sex has the best chance of success. Your healthcare provider may also advise working on other factors that can affect fertility.

Be Smoke-Free During Pregnancy

You’ve quit smoking because you’re pregnant. At first, not smoking may be new and exciting. It’s the best sort of change. You have a right to be proud. But then what? How do you stay smoke-free when life goes back to normal? Plan ahead to fight temptation. Be aware of signs that warn of a slip.

Stay Smoke-Free After Pregnancy

The benefits of not smoking will last your whole life. But changes related to the birth may set off an old urge to smoke. So use the excitement of a new baby to stay smoke-free. Make a new plan to help get through these busy months.

Quit Smoking During Pregnancy with Less Stress

Stress is a common way to react to life events. Your body may become tense, your mood may shift, or you may feel worried. Stress is one of the biggest reasons people smoke. But you can let go of stress without lighting up. Learn how.

Quitting Smoking During Pregnancy: Beating Withdrawal

The first day after you quit smoking, as the nicotine leaves your body, you’re likely to notice symptoms of withdrawal. These are signs of your body recovering from smoking. For some people, withdrawal is mild. Others have a harder time. Use the 4 D's listed below to beat withdrawal.

For New Mothers: Staying Fit After Delivery

After you deliver your baby, you can start to exercise whenever you feel ready. Let your body be your guide. Most women are ready to exercise after 6 weeks, whereas some women will be ready a few days after delivery. If you’ve had a cesarean section, you may need more time. If you've had a cesarean section, ask your healthcare provider when it is safe to begin exercising again.