Separating Fact From Fiction: What’s The Truth

NEW YORK, N.Y., JUNE 7, 2007 – Pregnant women need to be especially careful to eat healthfully and pregnancy is a great time to learn how to do it, according to a leading nutrition expert.

Marion Nestle, Ph.D., M.P.H., a nationally-renowned nutritionist and author, said women who are pregnant or thinking about getting pregnant should use this time as an opportunity to learn the basics of good nutrition before, during and after pregnancy. Fortunately, the basic principles of healthful diets apply even more to pregnancy: eat enough (but not too much); stay active; eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; don't eat too much junk food; and enjoy!
Dr. Nestle made her comments during a March of Dimes-sponsored National Communications Advisory Council luncheon entitled "Mythbusters: Myths and Misconceptions on Nutrition in Pregnancy." During the luncheon, attended by more than 30 reporters, Dr. Nestle, who is the Paulette Goddard Professor of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health at the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development at New York University, also said, "You have to be a savvy shopper about food just as you would be with anything else you buy. If claims about a particular food or product seem too good to be true, they undoubtedly are! Be a skeptic, do some homework, ask questions. Rely on research, not opinion. And check any major decision with your prenatal provider."

MYTHBUSTERS/NUTRITION IN PREGNANCY

The March of Dimes says consumers have lots of questions about good nutrition in pregnancy. They include, "Does salt have anything to do with hypertension?"; "Is it okay to eat artificial sweeteners during pregnancy?"; and "Are herbal supplements safe because they are 'natural'?"
Also speaking at the luncheon was Kim Saul, a vegetarian and the mother of 3-year-old Quinn. "I knew a lot about eating well for my own health, but when I got pregnant I learned some important food tips from my obstetrician. I didn't need more protein, but did have to add calcium and keep my iron levels up. I limited fish that might have high mercury content. I also ate eggs, but made sure they were cooked thoroughly. I didn't overdue anything. For me, moderation was and is the key."