Nutrition is always important but it becomes even more important when you are pregnant. A women’s diet needs to provide enough energy and nutrients for herself as well as the baby. This means that pregnant women need a balanced and nutritious diet. Having a balanced diet means consuming the correct amounts of carbohydrates and fats, protein, and eating a variety of fruits and vegetables.

Need some ideas when it comes to a pregnancy diet? Follow our 5 nutritional foods to eat when pregnant guide:

1. Yogurt: This dairy product contains just as much calcium as milk. However, the big positive to this delicious snack is that it is also packed with folic acid. Folic acid is an important vitamin for the development of the baby’s brain. Surprisingly, yogurt is also packed with protein. Not only is this a good way to pack on the calcium and protein but yogurt goes really well with all types of nuts and fruits like mangos, which are also nutritious foods to eat when pregnant.

2. Vegetables such as spinach, carrots, and avocados: Spinach is packed with folic acid, vitamin A, calcium, and iron. It is full of vitamins and tastes good in a number of dishes like vegetable lasagna, salads, and with chicken. So, why not indulge in it? Carrots are filled with vitamin A, which will promote growth in your baby, specifically with their eyes, teeth, and bones. Avocados are a super food. They are also packed with folic acid, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and potassium. Vitamin B6 is an important vitamin to consume while pregnant because it helps tissue and brain growth for the baby and because it can reduce the effects of morning sickness.

3. Oatmeal: Oats are full of iron, vitamin B, fiber, and tons of other nutrients. Again, not only are the packed with nutrients but they are great with fruits and nuts, which provide another assortment of vitamins and nutrients.

4. Nonfat Milk: Calcium is essential for the body. However, during pregnancy, the body absorbs almost twice as much of this vital vitamin. Unfortunately, statistics show that the average person is lacking calcium, which means that extra intake is necessary during the 9 months of pregnancy. Each 8-ounce glass of nonfat milk delivers about 30% of the suggested allowance of 1,000 milligrams.

5. Bananas: Bananas are a key pregnancy super food because of the amount of potassium they provide. Potassium gives energy, which makes it easier to cope with pregnancy fatigue. Plus this super food is perfect with many other foods on this list such as oatmeal and yogurt.