Dietary Needs of Pregnant Women Pregnant women need to pay more attention to their diet than the average person because the mother needs to provide adequate nutrition for the fetus. You should consume a variety of nutrients during pregnancy, including protein, iron, calcium, and folic acid. In addition, the intake of foods containing dietary fiber should be enhanced to maintain normal intestinal function. Protein-Rich Foods Protein is a key nutrient for building new cells and meeting metabolic needs. Pregnant women need extra protein to support healthy fetal growth. Good sources of protein include eggs, fish, lean