Do I really need a prenatal vitamin if I eat a healthy diet?

Yes. Even with a very balanced diet, it is difficult to get the specific levels of folic acid and iron required for a healthy pregnancy. A prenatal vitamin acts as an essential safety net to ensure your baby has everything they need for development.

Can I eat sushi while pregnant?

We recommend avoiding raw fish sushi due to the risk of parasites and bacteria. However, sushi made with cooked-ingredients like a California roll or cooked shrimp is perfectly safe and a good source of nutrients.

How much extra should I be eating each day?

Most women only need about 300 to 450 extra calories per day, and usually not until the second and third trimesters. This is roughly the equivalent of a healthy snack, such as an apple with peanut butter or a cup of yogurt with fruit.

What can I eat to help with morning sickness?

Bland, starchy foods like crackers, toast, or rice are often easiest to tolerate. Ginger tea or peppermint can also soothe the stomach. We recommend eating small amounts frequently so your stomach is never completely empty.

Is it safe to diet or lose weight during pregnancy?

We do not recommend weight loss diets during pregnancy, as your baby needs a steady supply of nutrients. If you are concerned about your weight, we will work with you on a plan to manage weight gain in a healthy, controlled way.

Can I drink herbal teas?

Many herbal teas are safe in moderation, but some contain ingredients that should be avoided. It is always best to check with our team before adding new herbal supplements or teas to your routine.

Pregnancy Nutrition

Fueling a Healthy Pregnancy

Good nutrition during pregnancy is not about “eating for two” in terms of quantity; it is about “eating for two” in terms of quality. During your prenatal visits, we discuss your diet and lifestyle to ensure you are getting the right balance of nutrients to support your changing body and your baby’s rapid development.

Our nutritional guidance typically includes:

Essential Prenatal Vitamins: We review your intake of folic acid, iron, calcium, and Vitamin D. These are critical for preventing birth defects, supporting bone health, and maintaining your energy levels.
Healthy Weight Management: We provide personalized goals for weight gain based on your pre-pregnancy health. Steady, managed weight gain is a key indicator of a healthy pregnancy.
Food Safety Education: We provide clear lists of foods to avoid [dash] such as certain types of fish high in mercury, unpasteurized dairy, and undercooked meats [dash] to protect you and your baby from foodborne illnesses.
Managing Symptoms Through Diet: We offer practical tips on using small, frequent meals and specific food choices to manage common issues like morning sickness, heartburn, and constipation.
Hydration Guidance: Proper fluid intake is essential for forming amniotic fluid and supporting your increased blood volume. We help you stay on track with healthy hydration habits.

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Who Is This For?

Expectant mothers looking for clear dietary guidelines.
Patients with specific nutritional needs or dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, etc.).
Women managing pregnancy-related conditions like gestational diabetes.
Anyone experiencing severe morning sickness who is struggling to maintain nutrition.
Patients who want to optimize their health and energy levels during the fourth trimester.

A Full Range of Care, From Conception to Postpartum

Whatever your pregnancy looks like, we have the experience and the resources to support it. Click any service below to learn more.

High-risk pregnancy management
Pregnancy with multiples (twins and more)
Management of pre-term labor
Ectopic pregnancy care
Pregnancy nutrition
Coping with physical and emotional changes
The Fresh Test (gestational diabetes screening)
Postnatal visits

Protecting Your Baby Through Informed Choices

While most foods are safe during pregnancy, some carry a higher risk of bacteria like Listeria or contain levels of mercury that can be harmful to a developing nervous system. Understanding these risks allows you to make confident choices at every meal.

Key safety guidelines include:

Fish with High Mercury: Avoid swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilefish. Instead, opt for low-mercury options like salmon, shrimp, and canned light tuna.
Unpasteurized Products: Steer clear of raw milk and soft cheeses like brie, feta, or blue cheese unless they are clearly labeled as made with pasteurized milk.
Deli Meats and Hot Dogs: These should be avoided unless they are heated until steaming hot to kill any potential bacteria.
Raw or Undercooked Proteins: Avoid raw sprouts, raw shellfish, and meat that has not been cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Caffeine Moderation: We generally recommend limiting caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day [dash] about one 12-ounce cup of coffee.

Get the Full Nutrition Guide