I was diagnosed with multiple food allergies in 2019 and have hashimoto's thyroiditis. Per my doctor, I'm not supposed to eat anything with gluten. My food allergies include dairy, egg, shrimp, and wheat. I have two healthy babies, ages six and four. I just didn't have these food restrictions the first time around. We're TTC and I've become worried about making sure my baby will get enough nutrients during my pregnancy. Any advice? I'd like to have a plan in place before we get pregnant.
Re: Multiple food allergies...HELP!
Consult a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who specializes in prenatal nutrition and food allergies. They can work with you to develop a personalized meal plan that meets your unique dietary needs while pregnant. They can also recommend safe, nutrient-dense substitutes for the foods you need to avoid.
Be proactive about taking a high-quality prenatal vitamin that is free of allergies. This will help fill any nutritional gaps in your diet. Discuss the specific vitamin with your doctor to ensure it aligns with your health conditions.
Familiarize yourself with sources of essential nutrients like iron, folate, calcium, and omega-3s that are compatible with your dietary restrictions. This will allow you to incorporate them into your meals and snacks.
Meal prep and plan ahead as much as possible. This will make it easier to have allergen-free, nutritious foods on hand during pregnancy.
Stay in close communication with your doctor throughout your pregnancy. They can monitor you and your baby's progress and make any necessary adjustments to your care plan.
With the right planning and support, you can absolutely have a healthy pregnancy and baby despite your dietary needs. Let me know if you have any other questions!