Bloomberg News ran a recent article concerning pregnancy and the maternal diet. This article primarily focused on controversy surrounding what foods to avoid or eat in moderation when pregnant, like sugary drinks or processed foods.  The article states that: “Every month that passes brings new studies saying this food is good for you and that food is bad.”

But, there is one very constant and undisputed dietary recommendation for pregnant women or those who are trying to have a baby – eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.  There is an overwhelming amount of peer reviewed studies conducted over decades which show the benefits of eating a diet rich in fruits and veggies on maternal and fetal health.  These benefits include a lower rate of birth defects as well as improved cognitive function in children born to mothers who consumed a plant rich diet.

For women seeking to become pregnant, a recently released book titled, “Fertility Foods” can provide some good guidance.   This book by Elizabeth Shaw, RDN, MS, CLT and Sara Haas , Chef, RDN, LDN includes over 100 recipes featuring nutrition-packed foods that may help women achieve better fertility results.

The Bloomberg article also stated that women can experience anxiety concerning their diet during pregnancy and that this anxiety also isn’t healthy for pregnant women.  So some messaging consistency about the benefits of organic and conventional fruits and veggies on the maternal diet may be helpful. In fact, peer reviewed nutritional studies also show that this is a message everyone should embrace – not just expectant mothers.

Read, learn, choose but eat more fruits and veggies everyday for better health and a longer life.