How can I get enough protein during pregnancy?

Your questions answered by Yvonne Wake of Greatvine.com

I don’t eat meat or fish – how can I make sure I get enough protein during pregnancy?

During pregnancy (and especially when you are lactating) your protein needs will increase. It is thought that 60 grams of protein per day will be sufficient (unless you are having twins, then its double).

Good sources of protein for someone who does not eat fish or meat could be found in dairy products (milk, cheese, yoghurt) and nuts.

The question does not say if you are a vegetarian or not, but if you just don’t like to eat meat or fish, but can eat dairy, then this is your best bet for protein intake.

Also, all types of pulses (lentils, beans) will be good sources of protein. For example, half a cup of beans contains about the same amount of protein as 3 ounces of Steak. Eggs are good sources, but only the yolk contains the protein, so an egg a day will also be a good source. See more protein tips for vegetarians here.

Yvonne Wake

Yvonne Wake (BSc. MSc) is a qualified public health nutritionist and university lecturer in nutrition and health, with over 30 years of experience in health matters. Yvonne has managed her own successful health clubs in London, and specialises in helping people obtain a healthy and well-balanced life as it relates to their diet, physical fitness and lifestyle. For individual advice you can trust, book a private call with Yvonne at www.greatvine.com/yvonne_wake.