Maintaining a healthy diet is essential irrespective of the fact if a person is pregnant or not.

But there is no doubt that the key nutrients that come from whole foods are important for the development of the baby's brain.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, some foods have proven to be filled with nutrients that are important for the development of a baby.

They also have the nutritious power to improve the mental health of the babies and strengthen their memory too, when these foods are included in diet during pregnancy.

1. SPINACH

According to the George Matelijan Foundation's analysis, spinach tops the list of nutrient-rich foods. It contains vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, fibres, calcium and folic acid.

The high content of iron is the main reason one should include spinach in their diet.

Anaemia is a common problem during pregnancy that can persist even after the birth of the child. Extra iron helps in the development of the baby's red blood cells and ensures the transfer of oxygen to the baby's brain cells.

2. BANANAS

Bananas have been considered the super foods for pregnant women. Women can carry them in their purses and have them even on the go to their workplace.

Bananas are rich in potassium, lipids, iron, calcium, phosphorus and iron which fight off the terrible pregnancy fatigue that drains the body by the middle of the day.

They are also known to prevent premature labour, and high blood pressure, help in indigestion and increase immunity.

One can eat them plain or add them to their yoghurts, smoothies or salads!

3. SALMON

Salmon is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, especially Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), which plays a vital role in the development and proper functioning of the brain.

DHA is also a structural fatty acid present in the nervous system which makes it essential for brain development.

Deep frying of the fish may result in the loss of Omega-3 fatty acids. That is why it is important to bake, broil or steam them before eating.

4. EGGS

Egg yolk is a rich source of choline which is the main component of cell mass and cell membrane.

Eggs are also responsible for acetylcholine which carries messages through nerves.

That is why eggs have proven to be beneficial for the development and memory-related functions of the brain.

Though raw eggs have higher choline content which gets destroyed while cooking, it is advised that eggs be cooked before consumption to prevent food poisoning.

5. LEAN MEAT

lean meat filled with zinc and iron is said to be very beneficial for pregnant women.

Low levels of zinc hinder the memory-related functions of the brain. Iron helps in the transfer of oxygen to the brain and keeps anaemia at bay.

Iron deficiency can be dangerous for both the mother and the baby. It is better to stir fry, bake or roast the meats rather than deep frying or cooking them in spices and gravy.

6. DAIRY PRODUCTS

Dairy products: Milk, cheese and yoghurt are filled with calcium and high-quality protein like whey and casein.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, calcium is not only important for the development of teeth and bones but also plays a major role in the electrical signalling that takes place within the brain.

It is important for the overall development of the baby and should be included in the diet.

7. AVOCADOES

They are full of healthy fats, antioxidants, iron, Vitamin C and Vitamin B-6. They help to fight against the morning sickness that causes fatigue for the rest of the day and help in the absorption of nutrients from other fruits and vegetables.

Half a cup of avocado contains 22 milligrams of choline which plays a vital role in the development of red blood cells, and the fetal brain and fights anemia as well.

8. NUTS AND SEEDS

They are filled with protein, essential fatty acids, iron, zinc, vitamin E, vitamin B and other groups of vitamins that have proved to be important for the development and functioning of the brain as well the neurological system.

The fibre present in them aids in digestion. Walnuts filled with DHA, a type of Omega-3 acids improve the brain's performance and prevent any cognitive diseases.

9. SALT

Salt is rich in iodine and iodine is required by the thyroid for the production of triiodothyronine and thyroxine hormones for both babies and women.

Iodine plays a major role in the development of the baby's cerebral cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum, and visual and auditory cortex.

Since the thyroid of the baby doesn't develop up to 20 weeks the iodine consumed through the mother's food helps in the development of the brain.
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Getting intelligent baby is by prayer from the day u collect the results of pregnancy. U start speaking into the child life morning and night

Seek the Holy Spirit advise on naming the child and start saving for good schools so The child can be built up well