Everything you eat and drink while pregnant affects your baby. The foods you eat provide nourishment to your changing body and that of your developing baby. It's hard to know what is a healthy amount of weight to gain while pregnant, and many women struggle with wondering if they are eating the right foods. Each woman's body is different, so it's important to talk with your doctor about your pregnancy weight gain and diet. Here are some eating tips that are especially beneficial for pregnant women:

Don't follow fad diets

You are growing a human inside of you and that requires eating extra calories and a diverse diet. Trying to do juice cleanses, follow a strict list of foods to eat or even cutting out items like carbs and sugar can be harmful. You need as much energy as you can get to promote healthy growth of your baby and keep your body in good shape while pregnant. The American Pregnancy Association noted that following diets like Atkins, The Zone, Raw Food Diet, South Beach and Atkins is not recommended while pregnant.

Give in to cravings

Many women experience morning sickness during their pregnancies. This unfortunate nausea doesn't just hang around during the early hours of the day - it can really affect your appetite. That's why, when you get a weird pregnancy craving, it's not a bad idea to give in. Pickles dipped in chocolate, potato chips and ice cream might sound good to you in the moment and help you get some calories that don't make you feel sick. While you might not normally eat such odd combinations of foods, your pregnant body is going through a lot of hormonal changes, and you'll likely find yourself becoming a bit of a foodie.

Get more important nutrients

You're not just eating for yourself now - you have to increase your intake of vitamins and minerals to ensure your baby is growing and developing at a healthy rate. It is likely that your doctor will recommend you take prenatal vitamins full of folic acid and other vital nutrients. Water is another key element to staying healthy while pregnant, so be sure to drink between six and eight 8 oz. glasses every day. Many obstetricians insist their pregnant patients amp up their protein and vegetable consumption to get more energy and vitamins A, C, B and D. Eating fish that are low in mercury, like salmon, pollack and tuna, is a great way to get omega-3s and healthy fats that promote good cardiac health.

Don't worry

Some days you will feel like you can't stop eating - you'll be hungry for everything! Others will be filled with morning sickness and a lack of appetite. Talk with your doctor about any concerns regarding your eating and drinking habits. He or she can let you know if you're on the right track with pregnancy weight gain and ensure that you're eating foods that are good for both you and your growing baby.