While you may think you’re getting ready to eat for two, you actually only need to provide enough nutrients for two. The major growth period for your baby happens during the latter part of pregnancy. Instead of eating a huge, weight-packing dinner now, you’ll want to choose a smaller meal packed with nutrition. Whole grains, fresh vegetables and lean meats should be eaten in moderate amounts—no ice cream and pickles for you!

Now is a good time to start thinking about your diet and making positive changes to grow a healthy baby. Your baby will need lots of healthy food choices, like leafy greens and other veggies, fresh fruits, whole grains, lean meat and low-fat dairy. Though you’ll be gaining weight in the future, most of that weight is comprised of amniotic fluid, blood, tissue and of course, your baby. Proper food choices ensure your baby gets the best vitamins and minerals to grow healthy tissue, strong bones and well-formed organs.