Healthy Eating and Nutrition Tips During a Surrogacy Pregnancy

teaminclusives
May 27
2 min read

Maintaining a healthy diet is vital for all pregnancies, and it holds even greater significance in surrogacy. Ensuring that the developing baby receives essential nutrients while preserving your own well-being is a top priority. Balanced nutrition, adequate hydration, and appropriate supplementation are key to supporting both your health and the baby’s development. Below are our top dietary and nutritional recommendations for surrogates.

Key Nutrients for a Healthy Surrogacy Pregnancy

A nutrient-rich, balanced diet is essential to a successful pregnancy. Here are some of the most important nutrients to focus on:

Folic Acid – Crucial for preventing neural tube defects and supporting the baby’s brain and spinal development. Found in leafy greens, legumes, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals.
Protein – Vital for tissue and muscle growth in the developing baby. Good sources include lean meats, eggs, dairy products, nuts, beans, and tofu.
Calcium – Supports strong bones and teeth for both you and the baby. Found in dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified plant-based milks.
Iron – Prevents anemia and ensures adequate oxygen supply to the baby. Present in red meat, spinach, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Important for brain and eye development. Found in fatty fish like salmon, as well as flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds.

Recommended Supplements

While a healthy diet covers many needs, supplements help fill any nutritional gaps. Commonly recommended supplements during surrogacy include:

Prenatal Vitamins – These typically contain folic acid, iron, and other key nutrients.
DHA (a type of Omega-3) – Supports brain and nervous system development.
Calcium and Vitamin D – Helps maintain bone strength and prevent deficiencies.

Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement to ensure it aligns with your specific health needs.

Hydration Tips for Pregnancy

Hydration is just as critical as nutrition during pregnancy. Staying properly hydrated helps maintain amniotic fluid levels, supports digestion, and prevents dehydration. Surrogates should aim to:

Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily.
Incorporate water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges.
Limit caffeine and avoid sugary or artificially sweetened beverages.

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

Certain foods can pose health risks to both you and the baby. It’s best to avoid:

Raw or undercooked seafood, meats, and eggs due to the risk of infection.
Unpasteurized dairy products, which may carry harmful bacteria.
High-mercury fish such as shark, swordfish, and king mackerel.
Excessive caffeine—try to keep intake below 200 mg per day.

A well-balanced diet, the right supplements, and plenty of fluids are essential components of a healthy surrogacy pregnancy. Always discuss your dietary plan with your healthcare provider. And remember, the team at Inclusive Surrogacy is here to support you every step of the way, answer your questions, and ensure you feel confident and cared for throughout your surrogacy journey.