The month of May celebrates moms - including moms-to-be - and smart nutrition is essential to healthy babies. Expecting and nursing moms must especially consider:

• Folic Acid: Promotes fetal central nervous-system growth and prevents neural tube defects

• Iron: Is essential for blood-cell formation; mom’s blood-volume increases during pregnancy to support growing babies

• Calcium: Develops healthy bones and teeth in babies, especially during the final trimester when it’s drawn from mom’s reserves

By eating foods recommended in Canada's Food Guide, expectant moms can address most nutritional needs. Whole grains, dark leafy-greens and fatty fish are important for mom and the whole family.

Spotlight on Legumes

Legumes are foods such as peas, beans, lentils, peanuts, and the chickpeas that are the key ingredient in Summer Fresh Hummus. They’re smart, nutritious choices to eat before, during and after pregnancy.

Why?

• Legumes are a source of lean protein - protein needs increase significantly during pregnancy

• Legumes are rich in soluble and non-soluble fibre to help maintain healthy digestive systems in moms - especially important during pregnancy

• Legumes contain a number of important nutrients (including iron, folate, calcium) for expecting moms

A happy mom is a healthier mom! Enjoy these fun, tasty meal ideas that use nutritious Summer Fresh products.

• Spread your favourite Summer Fresh Hummus onto fresh, whole-wheat pitas or tortilla breads; roll up with baby spinach, shredded carrots and cucumber slices. Perfect for on-the-go moms!

• Grill or oven-roast salmon and baby potatoes; serve with a dollop of Summer Fresh Tzatziki and sprinkle with chopped fresh dill. A healthy choice? Check!

• Spread whole grain baguettes with Grilled Peach Bruschetta, layer crumbled goat cheese and broil until bubbly; serve over a lightly-dressed salad of baby arugula. Dress up those dark leafy-greens!

• Halve and seed a whole red, orange or yellow pepper; fill each half with a Summer Fresh Single Serve Salad. An eye-catching, nutrient-packed meal!