Tarah Chieffi - The Everything Paleo Pregnancy Book: The All-Natural, Nutritious Plan for a Healthy Pregnancy

Dear Reader,

Since discovering a Paleo way of eating, I have done everything in my power to shout my real food message from the mountaintops. There is so much confusing (and often conflicting) diet information out there, and it was a revelation to learn that it is possible to be healthy and thrive by eating the way our ancestors did. Even before pregnancy, I felt stronger, more energetic, and more in tune with my body than I ever had before. Once I learned that I was pregnant, following a Paleo diet became even more important to me because I wanted to nourish my growing baby with nutritious, whole foods.

Whether you are new to the Paleo diet or want to learn more about this way of eating to support a happy pregnancy and the healthy growth and development of your baby, The EverythingPaleo Pregnancy Book will give you the knowledge, tools, and confidence to follow a Paleo diet while navigating the ups and downs of pregnancy. Not only will you discover how to manage common symptoms such as fatigue and nausea; you will also learn how to adjust to your new role as mom, and youll be treated to dozens of healthy recipes that will provide the nutrients you and your baby need... and even a few sweets to satisfy those pregnancy cravings.

Wishing you a happy and healthy nine months,

Tarah Chieffi

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PUBLISHER Karen Cooper

MANAGING EDITOR, EVERYTHING SERIES Lisa Laing

COPY CHIEF Casey Ebert

ASSISTANT PRODUCTION EDITOR Alex Guarco

ACQUISITIONS EDITOR Hillary Thompson

DEVELOPMENT EDITOR Brett Palana-Shanahan

EVERYTHING SERIES COVER DESIGNER Erin Alexander

Visit the entire Everything series at www.everything.com

Avon, Massachusetts

This book is dedicated to my loving and supportive husband, Kevin, who has always believed in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.

CONGRATULATIONS, MAMA, YOURE PREGNANT! Before you know it, youll be holding that tiny bundle of joy in your arms. Until then, you are going to get a lot of advice on how to manage your pregnancywhat to buy, what to wear, when to sleep, how to exercise, and even how to eat. If you follow a Paleo diet and know the benefits of following an ancestral way of eating, you may be used to brushing off well-meaning advice when it comes to nutrition. You are already well aware that eating a diet of whole foods such as meat, seafood, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats can prevent and even reverse disease, improve sleep and energy, and promote optimal body composition. But now that you are pregnant, what you eat and how you care for your body are more important than ever. Your baby needs specific nutrients for proper growth and development, and your nutritional needs are changing, as well. Pregnant women have varying carbohydrate, protein, and fat requirements and also need higher levels of certain vitamins and minerals to support their changing bodies.

You want what is best for your baby, and it is totally normal to have questions and concerns about how much and what you should be eating. This book will give you the scientific evidence that shows how a Paleo diet can help you to meet all of your nutritional needs during pregnancy. It will also provide you with practical tips on getting through each stage of pregnancy and beyond. You will learn which nutrients are most important during pregnancy and where to get them, how to handle common (and not-so-common) pregnancy symptoms and complications, and how to modify your exercise routine. You will also find helpful tips for the postpartum period, such as recovery after delivery, connecting with other new moms, postpartum fitness, bonding with baby, and how to continue with your Paleo lifestyle while tending to the demanding schedule of a newborn. The recipes included in this book are simple, delicious, and often substantial enough that youll have leftovers for the next day so you can spend a little extra time cuddling your sweet baby. Youll find everything from well-rounded breakfasts to Paleo versions of some of your favorite comfort foodsand healthy snacks and treats to tame your sweet tooth.

The Paleo diet is not about restriction or deprivation. It is about health, longevity, and nourishment. It really isnt even a diet; it is a way of taking control of your health and your life. It is about removing refined, nutrient-depleting foods that can cause digestive distress and promote disease and replacing them with real foods that are minimally processedfoods that make you feel good inside and out. If this way of eating appeals to you, rest assured that you will be providing your baby with everything she needs to thrive by following the advice in this book and that of your health care provider.

So whether you have been following a Paleo diet for years or are totally new to Paleo, this book will become your go-to resource for all things pregnancy and will teach you the benefits to both you and your baby of living a Paleo lifestyle.

Pregnancy is a time of wonder and amazement as you develop a lifelong bond with your growing baby. It is also your first opportunity to nurture and care for your baby by following a healthy diet, staying active, and allowing yourself time for rest and relaxation. Although you may be going against the grain (so to speak) by following a Paleo lifestyle during pregnancy, you can be sure that this way of eating provides all of the nutrients that you and your baby need as you embark on this journey to motherhood.