Prenatal nutrition3 min readUpdated November 2, 2026

International Pantry Staples for Pregnancy Nutrition

Oats, Greek yogurt, lentils, low-mercury salmon, eggs, leafy greens, and citrus — practical ways to build balanced plates.

International Pantry Staples for Pregnancy Nutrition

Pregnancy Meal Planner Team · Pregnancy Meal Planner Nutrition Editorial (WHO/CDC/NHS/ACOG)

Introduction

When it comes to pregnancy nutrition, choosing the right foods is crucial for the health of both mom and baby. In this article, we'll explore some international pantry staples that are good for pregnant women, helping to build a balanced and nutritious diet.

International Pantry Staples for Pregnancy

Some international pantry staples that are good for pregnant women include:

* Oats: rich in fiber, supporting digestive health and reducing the risk of constipation.

* Greek yogurt: rich in calcium, supporting the development of baby's bones and teeth.

* Lentils: rich in iron, supporting blood production and reducing the risk of anemia.

* Low-mercury salmon: rich in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting the development of baby's brain and eyes.

* Eggs: rich in protein, supporting the development of baby's muscles and tissues.

* Leafy greens and citrus: rich in vitamins and minerals, supporting immune function and reducing the risk of disease.

Building Balanced Plates

To build a balanced and nutritious diet, pregnant women can combine these international pantry staples with traditional Vietnamese foods. For example:

* A bowl of oatmeal with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit.

* A lentil salad with leafy greens and citrus.

* Grilled low-mercury salmon with roasted vegetables and brown rice.

* Scrambled eggs with leafy greens and whole-grain toast.

Foods to Avoid

When pregnant, it's essential to avoid certain foods that can harm the health of both mom and baby, including:

* Raw or undercooked foods, such as sushi, sashimi, and raw meat.

* High-mercury foods, such as shark and swordfish.

* Foods that contain listeria, such as soft cheese and cold cuts.

Conclusion

Choosing the right foods is crucial during pregnancy. Pregnant women can combine international pantry staples with traditional Vietnamese foods to build a balanced and nutritious diet. For more information on pregnancy meal planning and prenatal nutrition, visit our website.

When to Seek Help

If pregnant women have any questions or concerns about their diet or health during pregnancy, they should seek help from a healthcare provider or registered dietitian. They can provide personalized advice and guidance to ensure the health and well-being of both mom and baby.

Explore on Pregnancy Meal Planner

Use these Pregnancy Meal Planner pages next — each link goes to a different part of the site:

Sources

* WHO: Nutrition counselling during pregnancy

* CDC: People at Risk: Pregnant Women — Food Safety

* NHS: Foods to avoid in pregnancy

Educational overview inspired by Pregnancy Meal Planner Editorial. Not a verbatim copy.

Frequently asked questions

What foods are good for pregnant women?
Oats, Greek yogurt, lentils, low-mercury salmon, eggs, leafy greens, and citrus are all good options for pregnant women.
How can I build a balanced and nutritious diet during pregnancy?
Combine international pantry staples with traditional Vietnamese foods to build a balanced and nutritious diet.
What foods should I avoid during pregnancy?
Raw or undercooked foods, high-mercury foods, and foods that contain listeria should be avoided during pregnancy.

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