Extra folate at this time reduces the risk of having a baby with a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida. This is because the vitamin is important at a time when many women do not realise that they are pregnant. It is also important to consume foods that are naturally good sources of folate eg. green vegetables, oranges, and foods that have been fortified with folic acid eg some bread and breakfast cereals. During the first 6 months of pregnancy, most women do not need to eat more food than normal. The body becomes more efficient at absorbing and using nutrients from food.
Vitamin D is needed for the absorption of calcium.
The total weight gain during pregnancy will be about 12. 5kg. Although women should not restrict their food intake or go on slimming diets when pregnant, there is no need to increase food intakes significantly until late pregnancy. Vitamin A is essential for good health. However, large intakes during early pregnancy have been linked to birth defects. Women who are pregnant, or who might become pregnant, should not take vitamin A supplements unless they are advised to do so by a health professional.