Week 12: You may not feel it yet, but your baby is kicking

So much is happening this week. Your baby is beginning to swallow some amniotic fluid to fuel its movement. The fluid goes into the lungs giving your baby the opportunity to work these muscles for when he or she comes into the world. Your baby will continue to develop its functional muscles, cartilage (connective tissue found in joints) and bones, including its first set of fingernails. By now, your baby’s heart has divided into 4 chambers (left and right atrium/ventricles) and is pumping blood and nutrients around its lime sized body. 

Essential Nutrients this Week: Choline, Omega-3 fatty acid, Protein, Iron, vitamin D, vitamin C, Fibre, Magnesium, Potassium, Zinc

Food of the Week: Organic Eggs

Organic eggs are one of the most convenient, versatile and nutritious superfoods; especially during pregnancy. They can be consumed as a snack or part of a main meal, and are an excellent source of protein and choline as well as many other vitamins and minerals.

Recipes of the Week

Green Eggs

Delicious any time of the day, this recipe will help you eat nutrients for two. It will also help you add close to 300mg of choline to your diet — choline is required for your baby’s brain development, placental function, helps prevent neural tube defects and shares many of the same nutritional benefits as folate.

Broccoli Soup

Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse full of vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants. Combined with spinach and peas, this soup will help to keep you and your baby well nourished throughout pregnancy. Make a double batch and freeze the extra portions for easy lunches or dinners.

Carrot and Zucchini Bread

This easy to make bread is packed full of vegetables, is gluten free and delicious beside a bowl of your favourite soup or scrambled eggs. It is also a delicious and nourishing stand alone snack. It freezes well.

Pregnancy Articles

How To Avoid Toxins And Have A Healthier Pregnancy — what toxins to avoid and why + 70 tips for reducing your exposure to toxins during pregnancy

Tips For Regulating Your Blood Sugar During Pregnancy — keeping your blood sugar levels stable is a key part of healthy eating during pregnancy

How To Manage Food Aversions And Cravings During Pregnancy — how to navigate food aversions and cravings in a healthy and mindful way

Relieving Nausea And Morning Sickness — 30+ top tips for relieving morning sickness and nausea during pregnancy

The Why And How Of Buying Organic Food When Pregnant — tips for minimising your exposure to toxins that may harm your health and your baby’s growth and development

Prenatal Vitamins Aren’t Created Equal — Are You Taking Quality Supplements? — a deep dive into why and how to choose quality supplements plus and how and when to take them for optimal effect