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Expert Q&A

	By Allison Gamble Nutritionist/Diet Technician Highland Park Hospital, Illinois

I read a book recently and was wondering if I need to absolutely follow the diet they recommend. They say no sugar, and to eat brown rice instead of white, whole wheat pasta, etc. I usually east healthy and I am fit and trim, but occasionally I cheat. I love chocolate and French food (high fat!) and goat cheese -- can I eat these still and how often? Do I need to eat brown rice every time and eat my 6-10 servings of grains per day? Am I completely over worrying?! Any advice would be appreciated."

It sounds to me like the authors are taking a very naturalistic approach to eating during pregnancy. They also want you to get the most nutrition out of everything you eat. While I don't believe you are going to jeopardize your baby's health because you put sugar on your cereal and eat regular white-flour pasta, I do think it pays to be extra conscious of what you are putting in your mouth.

I see nothing wrong with substituting whole wheat bread for white, or not putting sugar on your cereal. Stick to foods that are natural and haven't been processed to the point of no return. The authors probably want you to pack in the most vitamins and minerals possible. You don't need to absolutely follow the book's diet, but maybe pick some suggestions that seem reasonable to you and try them.

I would definitely limit your high fat foods, not just because you are pregnant, but for your overall health. There is nothing wrong with loving chocolate, goat cheese and French food -- just don't eat it all the time. Since you love French food, see if you can adjust the recipes and cut out some fat. (Many cookbooks these days give you a lower fat option for preparing recipes.)

When you are pregnant, you hear so many different opinions. If they sound valid, take them into consideration, but I think women should follow their instincts about what is right for them. Listen to reliable sources, and always remember: if it sounds wacky or too good to be true, it probably is.

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