Research suggests that the placenta does not block
the passage of certain toxins to the baby. To help
to protect yourself and the baby eat the following
foods/nutrients:
• Garlic, onion, bananas, apples and pears to
reduce absorption of toxins in general
• Beans, peas and lentils which act as detoxifiers
• B vitamins for general protection
• Vitamin C and zinc to reduce levels of lead
in the blood; vitamin E to reduce the risk of lead
poisoning and calcium to prevent the absorption of
lead
Antioxidants
Besides vitamins and minerals there are other substances
that can help prevent disease and promote health the
bioflavonoid. They are potent antioxidants and also
give fruits and vegetables their bright colors. They
include:
• Thioesters (garlic, onions, leeks)
• Terpenes (citrus fruits)
• Plant phenols (grapes, strawberries, apples)
• Carotenoids (carrots, yams, sweet potatoes,
watermelon)
• Lutein (tomatoes)
The most nutritious fruits and vegetables are the
fresh variety; frozen and canned varieties are acceptable
too. As long as you are eating the recommended amounts
of fruits and vegetables, you are getting the bioflavonoid
that you and your baby need.
A word on Folic Acid
All women of childbearing age who are capable of becoming
pregnant should consume folic acid every day. The
recommended dose is:
• 400 mg a day for all women of childbearing
age
• 600 mg a day for pregnant women
• 500 mg a day for lactating mothers
