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Why Nutrition and Support Matter for Expecting Moms

May 27, 20253 min read

As I stood in my kitchen today, stirring a pot of warm, comforting spaghetti, memories of my own pregnancy journey came rushing back. I was pregnant with twins, and every day felt like a battle—navigating intense nausea, bone-deep fatigue, and the constant question: What should I eat to support my babies and myself?

Through that experience, I came to understand the importance of nutrition and support for expecting moms—not just in theory, but in the deepest, most personal way.

Why Nutrition Matters So Deeply During Pregnancy

Nutrition during pregnancy isn’t simply about satisfying hunger or avoiding cravings. It’s about fueling two (or more) lives. The choices we make with every meal directly impact our baby's development, our energy levels, and our ability to cope with the physical and emotional demands of pregnancy.

For many expecting moms—especially those carrying multiples—eating well can be daunting. Between food aversions, exhaustion, and time constraints, preparing balanced meals often falls to the bottom of the list. But proper nutrition during this time is vital for:

  • Healthy fetal growth and development

  • Managing pregnancy symptoms like fatigue and mood swings

  • Reducing the risk of complications like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia

  • Supporting postpartum recovery

The Role of Support: Why Moms Can’t Do It Alone

Looking back, one of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is that no mom should have to navigate pregnancy alone—especially when it comes to nourishment. When I finally enlisted the support of a doula during birth and postpartum, I realized what I had been missing all along.

A doula doesn’t just offer birth support—they can be an incredible ally in guiding you through pregnancy nutrition. From offering tips and meal ideas to simply encouraging you to care for yourself, having someone in your corner can make all the difference.

How Doulas Help with Pregnancy Nutrition and Self-Care

Many people don’t realize that doulas often support the whole pregnancy experience, including:

  • Personalized food suggestions based on your needs and preferences

  • Help creating simple, nutritious meal plans

  • Encouragement to stay hydrated and rested

  • Emotional support during overwhelming moments

Having someone who understands both the emotional and nutritional demands of pregnancy can be a game-changer.

Creating a Supportive Community for Expecting Moms

Today, as I cook, I reflect on how powerful it is to share our stories, struggles, and solutions. If we can build a network of women helping women—moms sharing recipes, doulas offering wisdom, and friends dropping off meals—we create something beautiful: a community of care.

Let’s uplift one another. Let’s normalize asking for help, offering support, and making nutrition a shared priority during pregnancy.

Conclusion: You Deserve Nourishment—And Support

The importance of nutrition and support for expecting moms cannot be overstated. Whether it’s having someone to cook beside you, a doula to guide you, or a friend who listens, these connections nourish far more than just our bodies.

Let’s promise to support each other through this incredible life stage—one comforting, nourishing meal at a time.

Need Support on Your Pregnancy Journey?

I’d love to walk beside you.
Contact me today for a free consultation—and let’s talk about how we can make your pregnancy feel supported, empowered, and well-nourished.

Portia’s journey began as a new mom facing a traumatic birth and feeding challenges. Determined to never let another parent feel unsupported, she dove into birth work and lactation support. Now a full-spectrum doula, Portia provides compassionate, evidence-based care to expecting parents and new families. Her mission is simple: to empower families to birth with confidence, thrive postpartum, and nourish their babies with ease because every parent deserves peace of mind.

Portia Washington Harris

Portia’s journey began as a new mom facing a traumatic birth and feeding challenges. Determined to never let another parent feel unsupported, she dove into birth work and lactation support. Now a full-spectrum doula, Portia provides compassionate, evidence-based care to expecting parents and new families. Her mission is simple: to empower families to birth with confidence, thrive postpartum, and nourish their babies with ease because every parent deserves peace of mind.

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