So you're pregnant and very happy with the event. Conception can be difficult, but it's only the beginning of a long road ahead. 9 months is a long time and those months will come with a lot of satisfaction, but also with much challenge.

Keeping yourself healthy during your maternity period is one of those challenges and a mother-to-be must keep a close eye on herself and her habits. One of the things that they must alter and better is their diet. The food you take in plays a pivotal role in the healthy incubation of your child, not to mention how important it is to your own health.

As always, there are foods you should consume and foods you should avoid. The foods listed in this article are very easily acquired and will not pressure your wallet. You really should be including them in your diet.

But before you decide to go through with including the foods, consult a doctor. A medical professional can best tell you if something is right for you, especially if you have a medical condition that can complicate matters.

Here are several foods that you should eat during your pregnancy will benefit both you and your child:

1. Whole Grains

We've talked many times about the benefits of whole grains. They are of central importance in the diet of those carrying a child. They provide an abundant amount of fiber, and various whole grain product cover the different essential nutrients like protein, vitamins and minerals.

Whole grains are also very filling and will help you combat those many cravings you will invariably face.

You can learn more about some whole grains here. 

2. Dairy Products for the Calcium

Calcium is necessary for your baby's bones and teeth and soy milk and other dairy products are a good place to find them. That dairy products contain other benefits, only works in its favour.

3. Walnuts

Walnuts are one of the healthiest types of nuts. This is because they contain the miraculous Omega-3 fatty acid, and are also rich in fibre and protein. A handful of walnuts every day will keep you covered.

There's more to be known about walnuts on this page. 

4. Lentils

Lentils are highly recommended for mothers because it contains something called folic acid, which has a singular role in your baby's development. Folic acid helps with the development of the child's brain and nervous system, and also protects against certain birth defects.

Furthermore, they are good sources of protein and iron. The latter is especially important as a baby derives its iron requirements from the mother. If a mother is lacking in iron, she may develop postpartum anemia, a condition in which there is a lack of iron in the body because of the maternity.

5. Water

This is no trivial point - consuming an adequate amount of water is very important for the health of the developing baby. Water helps them build new cells, removes toxins and more. For the mother, it eases constipation. Fluids are very important for a soon-to-be mother.

Three meals a day is good and you can allow yourself some light snacking between these meals. If you're feeling sick, take appropriate medication to counter it. Many natural remedies are also available for morning sickness.

Including these foods will lead to a much healthier pregnancy period. It's also important how much you take in. Pregnant women need much more calories, but it isn't very wise to overdo it. The calorie intake should be raised as you progress from your first trimester to the third. Your doctor will tell you how much is best for you. (Remember to regularly consult your doctor!)

There you have it, foods that will fortify your child and yourself during your pregnancy. It is no doubt difficult, but it's also necessary for a mother to shake up her diet for the best possible outcome.