As a part of the Norfolk Island Community Health Promotion Plan, our community (those aged 16 years and over) now has access to this free and confidential phone based health coaching service. The service provides you with your own university qualified health coach who can provide 10 confidential calls over six months to help you make healthy lifestyle changes. If you are interested check out the website: www.gethealthynsw.com.au, call 1300806258 (freecall from Norfolk Island) or talk to your GP or chronic disease nurse (call 24134 for an appointment) or call the health and wellbeing office on 22687.
The Get Healthy program also has information on different topics about pregnancy. One of the topics is healthy eating during pregnancy. Healthy eating is especially important during pregnancy – for your own well being, as well as your baby’s. Eating ‘unhealthy’ foods, such as those high in fat and sugar, may cause your unborn baby to develop a preference for these foods during childhood and later life. Eating healthy during pregnancy often just means changing the amount of different foods you eat so that your diet is varied and nutritious.
Myth: I need to start ‘eating for two’.
There is no need to ‘eat for two’ during pregnancy.
- During the first 3 months of your pregnancy you do not need to eat any more than before you were pregnant
- After the first 3 months you may need to slightly increase the amount you eat; for example an extra piece of fruit each day
- The amount of food you need to eat will depend on your weight before pregnancy and how active you are
- While you may not need to start eating ‘more’ it is important to eat more nutritious food throughout your pregnancy
Myth: Cravings are a sign of what the baby needs.
- Some women experience cravings for certain foods during pregnancy. There is no evidence that cravings are a sign that the baby needs certain foods
- Try keeping your cravings in check: limiting the quantities of foods which are high in fat or sugar and make sure your baby is getting the nutrients they need
- Listen to your hunger cues and try to only eat if you’re actually hungry.
For more information on how to be healthy during your pregnancy, visit the Get Healthy website www.gethealthynsw.com.au
