(HealthDay News) -- When you're pregnant, eating a balanced, healthy diet is important for you and your baby.

The American Dietetic Association lists these key nutrients for pregnant women:

• Folic acid, found in fortified breads and cereals, can help prevent spinal cord birth defects.
• Iron, found in chicken, fish, red meat and green leafy veggies, helps prevent iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy.
• Calcium, found in dairy foods and calcium-fortified juices, aids in the development of baby's bones, teeth, nerves, muscles and heart.
• Whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats and low-fat dairy foods are also part of a balanced diet.

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