Eating organic: For those who are chemically intolerant, organic foods are the best choice for one simple reason: they are pesticide-free, and the fewer pesticides you ingest or inhale, the better, making this tip ideal for everyone. Eating organic also reduces or eliminates the amount of antibiotics, pesticides or hormones that end up in an individual’s diet. Eating as organic as possible should be strived for as an expecting mother since any pesticides, antibiotics or other chemicals consumed by the mother will be passed on to the baby through the bloodstream which can have harmful effects on development. Opt for organic baby foods and snacks or home-made organic baby purees.
Note: While eating organic food can be expensive, cutting down on takeout and or eating out, to eat better at home, is a good strategy to cut costs and improve health.
Cutting down or eliminating triggering substances: Most people have intolerances to something, common triggers include alcohol, caffeine, and other stimulants; sweeteners such as sugar, corn syrup, fructose, aspartame, and saccharin; food additives such as MSG, preservatives, artificial colors and artificial flavors; as well as tobacco. Cutting these substances out of your diet can reduce unpleasant symptoms and improve immune system functions, support a healthier gut, and improve cognitive function leading to less brain fog and clearer thoughts.
Preparing meals ahead of time: Cook casseroles that will last for several days and freeze meals. Freezing homemade meals or meal prepping is a great way for expecting parents to prepare for incoming children or just get heads start on the week ahead of them. This way easy healthy meals are within reach!
Using frozen foods: There are now many nutritious organic foods such as fruits and vegetables available in frozen form. Frozen produce is usually cheaper than fresh as well, making it a cost-effective and a nutritiously smart swap!
Probiotics & Multivitamins: If you are a new parent and you experience chemical sensitivities including food sensitivities and thus have difficulty absorbing nutrients, consider probiotics and tolerated vitamins – however, always consult your health provider before starting this regimen. Negative reactions to food include gastrointestinal symptoms such as heartburn, gas, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, as well as other symptoms. Probiotics can help improve gut health and perhaps ease some of these symptoms and both probiotics and multivitamins can aid with nutrient absorption.
Also visit our section on: Child care, Housekeeping and Personal hygiene for more healthy solutions
Reference:
Is it better to eat organic food when pregnant/breastfeeding?
https://www.naturespath.com/en-ca/answer/better-eat-organic-food-pregnant-breastfeeding/
Eating Organic Food When Pregnant and Breastfeeding-What are the benefits?
Statistics Canada. (2021). ASEQ-EHAQ
https://aseq-ehaq.ca/en/environmental-sensitivities/statistics/