Week 5: Your baby’s developing at a cracking pace

This week, your baby begins what is called the embryonic period which will continue until the end of week 8 and is marked by rapid development of the key organs and organ systems. During this time, some of the most essential organs start to form. It is from this time onward that your baby becomes highly susceptible to environmental toxins and harmful agents (alcohol consumption during this time may lead to miscarriage), as well as inadequate maternal nutrition.

Essential Nutrients this Week: Folate, Vitamin B12, Choline, Iodine, Zinc, Biotin, Potassium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Vitamin B6

Food of the Week: Asparagus

A cup of cooked asparagus contains almost half of the daily folate you need during pregnancy and also contains such other essential nutrients as potassium, phosphorus, vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K. Steaming, roasting, sautéing and pan-roasting are a few ways to make tender green asparagus spears pop with flavour. This fibrous vegetable cooks up in minutes, and can also be enjoyed raw. 

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.

Asparagus and Snow Peas

This side dish is super easy to throw together and enjoy alongside your main meal, upping the nutrient-density (which is exactly what we’re aiming for during pregnancy). Follow the link to find the recipe for this Asparagus an Snow Peas dish plus a bunch of other green side dish recipes.

Creamy Pesto “Pasta”

A light and healthy zucchini noodle dish that is filled with colourful vegetables. Easy to make and delicious, this dish is loaded with essential pregnancy nutrients including folate, vitamins A and C, and iron.

Healthful Tips

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

The Benefits Of Soaking Grains, Legumes, Nuts And Seeds And A How To Guide — a breakdown of how and why soaking and activating grains, legumes, nuts and seeds aids nutrient absorption and is important during pregnancy

Easy Pantry Swaps — a downloadable guideline for swapping in healthier alternatives