Feeding Your Baby's Brain During Pregnancy

The first trimester is vital to the development of a baby. This is the time the baby is formed, and all the vital organs begin to develop, including the brain.

As early as weeks one through four, the neural tubes are formed in the baby’s brain. Neural development is the process that will generate, shape, and reshape the nervous system, from the earliest stages of embryogenesis to the final years of life.

The exact causes of neural tube defects aren’t known. You are at greater risk to having a baby with a neural tube defect if you:

• Are obese
• Have poorly controlled diabetes
• Take certain antiseizure medications

The two most common neural tube defects are anencephaly and spinal bifida. Getting enough folic acid before and during pregnancy prevents most neural tube defects.

Many studies have shown that women who get 400 micrograms (0.4 milligrams) daily prior to conception and during early stages of pregnancy reduce their chances of their baby developing a neural tube defect by up to 70%.

Foods that are high in folic acid that women can eat during pregnancy are:

• Lentils
• Leafy greens
• Citrus
• Asparagus
• Kidney beans
• Broccoli
• Fortified bread and cereals
• Sunflower seeds
• Avocado
• Tomato juice

Here are some extras a woman can do during pregnancy to better help the development of her baby. Take your prenatal vitamins daily, get Omega-3s, be mindful of mercury with the fish that you eat, munch on fruits and veggies for snacks throughout the day, avoid alcohol, boost protein, pump up on your iron intake, don’t gain too much weight, and take steps to avoid food poisoning.

*FDA Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.