Diet During the 32nd Week of Pregnancy

The 32nd week of pregnancy is part of your third trimester and the beginning of your eighth month, bringing you closer to meeting your new baby. As your baby continues to grow and develop, adequate intake of calcium and iron are crucial. Nutrition should be a top priority during pregnancy to keep the mom and baby healthy, especially during the 32nd week.

Calorie Needs

During your last trimester, you will notice that you are gaining more weight compared to your first trimester. Typically, you will gain 1 pound during your 32nd week of pregnancy. Due to the extra demands on your body, your caloric needs are higher during the third trimester, including the 32nd week. Each day you need an additional 300 calories per day. The calories you need during your pregnancy should not be wasted on empty calorie foods such as candy, soft drinks or processed foods. Pick nutrient-dense foods.

Iron Needs

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Because your blood volume has increased 40 percent to 50 percent by week 32, your hemoglobin level may become an issue. Your physician should regularly check your hemoglobin level. Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen in red blood cells. Iron is a major component of red blood cells. Without iron, your body cannot effectively carry oxygen. You can obtain iron through your diet or with iron supplements. If your physician sees that your hemoglobin is low, he will prescribe iron pills. Foods high in iron include:

• red meats
  
• liver
  
• dried beans
  
• dried fruits
  
• leafy green vegetables
  
• peanut butter
  
• eggs
  
• fortified dry cereal

Calcium Needs

In the 32nd week of pregnancy, your baby's fingernails and toenails are formed. While your baby's skeleton has already formed, his bones are still pliable and soft. As his bones continue to develop, adequate calcium intake is important to prevent calcium loss from your bones. If your calcium intake is low, your body will release calcium for the baby. You need 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day.

Healthy Diet

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The foods you eat are your baby's main source of nourishment. The health of your baby and what you eat and drink have a direct correlation. Avoid foods high in fat such as fried foods, processed foods or high-fat cuts of meat. In the 32nd week of pregnancy, your baby usually is 16 inches and weighs between 4 and 4.5 pounds. This means your baby may be pushing on your stomach, making it difficult to eat large meals. Opt for eating small, frequent meals, every two to four hours during the day.