The Expert: Sylvia Klinger , spokesperson for Love One Today®
Registered Dietitian | M.S., R.D.N., L.D.N., C.P.T.
Q: Help! I am expecting my first baby and in love with all foods! ☺ I could use nutrition tips that help ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Sylvia: Congratulations! While there are some key diet recommendations to keep in mind during pregnancy, a traditional favorite like fresh avocados can top your shopping list as they support a healthy pregnancy in more ways than perhaps expected.
The Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics lists avocados as a healthful fat that can help women achieve a balanced diet and have a healthy pregnancy. Healthy avocados contain naturally good fats which are known to be important for normal growth and development of the baby’s central nervous system and brain. Plus, fresh avocados provide a good source of folate per serving which is important for developing a baby’s brain function and reducing the risk for premature births and birth defects.
Q: I tend to reach for unhealthy items to help satisfy my sweet and salty cravings, but I know I should be avoiding saturated fats and sugary foods. Any recommendations?
Sylvia: Cravings tend to come out of nowhere and be overpowering so best to have a plan in place. Stock your kitchen with nutrient-dense items that are versatile, satisfying and can save you from tempting unhealthy options. My go-to recommendation: fresh avocados. I love to eat them plain but you can try adding a little salt, sweet honey or tart balsamic vinegar to give your taste buds what they want. And because avocados are a good source of fiber, each bite helps you stay feeling full longer.
Try this new recipe for Cuban-style Grilled Salmon with Avocado, Baby Tomato and Herb Salsa., The avocado’s creaminess pairs nicely with the salmon, one of the richest sources of DHA and EPA. Remember, when selecting the avocado be sure to check the outside color of the skin and gently do the squeeze test to ensure it is ripe and ready to eat!
The Expert: Sylvia Klinger, spokesperson for Love One Today®
Registered Dietitian | M.S., R.D.N., L.D.N., C.P.T.
Award-winning author and global nutrition entrepreneur founder of Hispanic Food Communications, a nutrition communications and culinary consulting company. She is relentlessly passionate about helping people fall in love with the process of creating and enjoying delicious but most importantly, nutritious foods.
