If you are pregnant, you have probably received countless tips on what to eat, and at times may have felt confused. Pregnancy is a unique period in every woman’s life: a time of anticipation, emotion, and transformation, during which the body prepares to welcome and nourish a new life.
During these months, every choice—from diet to physical activity—takes on even greater significance. Eating well means nourishing yourself consciously, in a balanced and complete way, supporting the intake of nutrients essential for the growth and well-being of both mother and baby.
Thanks to the collaboration between the Montasio PDO Cheese Consortium and the scientific committee of the University of Udine, we have developed an approach that combines the science of proper nutrition with the pleasure of the table, showing that eating healthy during pregnancy can be both simple and delicious!
The importance of a balanced diet during pregnancy
During pregnancy, both energy and nutrient needs change. Although calorie requirements increase gradually (mainly from the second trimester), the need for certain micronutrients rises significantly.
Nutritional guidelines for pregnancy highlight the importance of:
● protein intake: essential to support fetal tissue synthesis and maternal tissue growth.
● calcium: adequate intake (up to 1,200 mg/day) is crucial for proper fetal bone mineralization and to prevent maternal bone demineralization.
● Iron and folates: vital to prevent anemia and support the development of the fetal central nervous system.
● Fats and essential fatty acids: needed to sustain the baby’s brain and visual development.
● Fiber, vitamins, and minerals: daily consumption of vegetables and fruit rich in these elements — and in fiber — is fundamental
● Hydration: drink plenty of water.
● Meal frequency: divide meals into breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
● Physical activity: moderate exercise is recommended for both maternal and fetal health (with medical approval).
● Food safety: pay close attention to food selection and preparation to minimize contamination risks.
Nutritional plan for pregnant women
A pregnancy nutrition plan should be varied and based on the correct distribution of macronutrients for a healthy diet: 21% of daily energy from proteins, 28% from fats, and 48% from carbohydrates.
Montasio PDO cheese, thanks to its content of bioavailable calcium and high-quality proteins, can be considered a valuable ingredient to help meet some of the increased nutritional needs during this phase.
To make your meals more tasty and nutritious, you can include Montasio PDO cheese:
For lunch, try bread gnocchi stuffed with Montasio served with a creamy leek sauce (combining carbohydrates, proteins, and essential fats).
For dinner, a dish like sole fillets with Montasio and walnuts promotes the intake of important components such as polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and high-quality proteins.
This balanced and flavorful menu shows how it is possible to combine healthy dietary choices with the pleasure of the table, thanks to mindful choices and high-quality ingredients like Montasio PDO cheese.
The information in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or guidance. For a personalized dietary plan suited to your specific needs, health status, or medical conditions, always consult your physician or a qualified nutritionist/dietitian.
