Episode 6: Nutrition in Pregnancy

Episode Summary In this episode of the Rhode to Pregnancy podcast, Ashley and Malia sit down with Dr. Katelyn Fox, a Rhode Island–based registered dietitian and researcher, to untangle the world of nutrition before, during, and after pregnancy. Together, they explore everything from key preconception nutrients and early-pregnancy must-haves to what a truly balanced meal looks like when you’re growing a baby. Dr. Fox dives into common questions about supplements, morning-sickness-friendly eating, cultural food traditions, body-image challenges, and how to meet nutritional needs with vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-conscious diets. The trio also talk through the myth of “eating for two,” how needs shift with twins or multiples, and simple, affordable strategies for staying nourished when life gets hectic. The episode wraps with a generous lineup of local Rhode Island resources, giving listeners practical ways to access healthy food and community support throughout pregnancy. Key Topics Covered What are the most important nutrients someone should focus on before getting pregnant? Can diet influence fertility in any meaningful way? Which foods are especially helpful for supporting early fetal development? Are there foods that should be avoided completely during pregnancy, and why? Why is it important to eat well in pregnancy? What does a balanced meal look like? Do my prenatal vitamins contain all the vitamins and nutrients I need in one day? I’m pregnant, working, and taking care of kids at home: what are some easy and cheap things I can do to help me make sure I’m eating well?  How do I make sure I’m still getting the nutrients I need when I’m battling morning sickness? Or if I can only tolerate foods that may be “unhealthy,” like fast food or junk food? There's a saying some people may have heard about “eating for two” in pregnancy. Is there any truth to this?  Does this change if I have triplets or twins? Should I listen to or eat what I’m craving? Is there any harm in this?  I’m worried about gaining weight in pregnancy: how much is normal, and any advice for coping with the way my body is changing? How can someone who is vegetarian or vegan meet their nutritional needs during pregnancy? How do cultural diets and traditions fit into healthy pregnancy eating? Resources to help access low-cost food in RI? Rhode Island Resources Mentioned   WIC: https://health.ri.gov/women-infants-and-children  SNAP: https://dhs.ri.gov/programs-and-services/supplemental-nutrition-assistance-program-snap/supplemental-nutrition RI FOOD BANKS: https://www.rifreeclinic.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/FAL-FEB-2025-QR-code.pdf Meals on Wheels: https://www.rimeals.org/programs/food-pantry/#:~:text=Mobile%20Market%20%E2%80%93%20Available%20weekdays%20between,who%20may%20need%20additional%20foods. Cart Wheel RI: https://www.pantry.cartwheelri.org/order RI Community Foodbank: https://rifoodbank.org/community-nutrition/ CCAP: https://www.comcap.org/ Follow us on Instagram: @RhodetoPregnancy Enjoyed this episode? Please share it with friends and subscribe for more!