Pregnancy & Functional Foods: Safe, Smart Nutrition for Every Trimester
by MILESTONE® Food for Your Genes
Functional Foods for You
Pregnancy reshapes everything — including the way we think about food.
One of the most frequent questions we’re asked: Can I eat pomegranate now that I’m pregnant?The answer is a reassuring yes. Pomegranate is not only safe for most expecting mothers, but it also offers a rich source of natural compounds that nourish both mother and baby. From its potent antioxidants to its gentle support for digestion and circulation, pomegranate provides a foundation of wellness. In this guide, we explore why adding pomegranate to your pregnancy and breastfeeding journey could be one of the smartest — and most natural — choices you make.
Pregnancy Demands More — But Not More Pills
Walk into any pharmacy and you’ll find shelves lined with prenatal formulas, iron tablets, and omega-3 capsules — all claiming to be essential for a healthy pregnancy. But behind the labels and dosages lies a simple truth: more milligrams don’t always mean more benefit — and in some cases, they may do more harm than good.
Pregnancy isn’t just a phase of higher nutritional demand. It’s a time of delicate biological transformation. Which means what you put into your body needs to be not just “safe,” but synergistic, absorbable, and biologically intelligent.
That’s why we believe the best natural supplements for pregnancy aren’t supplements in the conventional sense. They’re functional foods — real, nutrient-rich formulations that work with your biology, not around it. At MILESTONE®, we use high-phenolic olive oil, fermented pomegranate, and microalgae-derived nutrients to nourish mothers from the inside out — with clean, food-based compounds that your body knows what to do with.
This article explores how our approach supports your pregnancy — safely, smartly, and season by season.
What Pregnant Bodies Really Need
Pregnancy isn’t just about eating more — it’s about absorbing smarter. The maternal body goes through extraordinary changes, and every system is affected: immune, hormonal, cardiovascular, and neurological. To support this transformation, you don’t just need nutrients — you need the right nutrients in the right form.
Let’s break down what your body is really asking for:
- Iron and B12 to support increased blood volume and red cell production
- Vitamin D3 for immune regulation, calcium metabolism, and fetal skeletal development
- Omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA) for brain and neural development
- Polyphenols and anti-inflammatory compounds to manage swelling, aches, and oxidative stress
The challenge? Most prenatal supplements offer these as isolated compounds — often synthetic, poorly absorbed, and delivered without the co-factors that make them biologically useful.
That’s why we favor food-based formats — rich in naturally bound micronutrients and delivered through oils, concentrates, and matrices your metabolism can actually recognize.
B12, Iron & Energy Support
Fatigue is one of the most common — and misunderstood — symptoms during pregnancy. Often, it’s dismissed as “normal.” But in reality, it can be a sign of something deeper: low iron, suboptimal B12, and a body struggling to keep up with the demands of fetal development.
By the second trimester, your blood volume increases by nearly 50%. That means your need for red blood cell support — including iron, folate, and vitamin B12 — increases dramatically. But the form matters just as much as the amount.
Most conventional prenatal supplements rely on:
- Ferrous sulfate — which can irritate the gut and cause constipation
- Cyanocobalamin — a cheaper B12 form that some women cannot metabolize efficiently
We take a different path. Our pomegranate concentrate is enriched with methylcobalamin (active B12) and a gentle, food-compatible iron — designed to support red blood cell formation, oxygen transport, and sustained energy without digestive discomfort.
Pomegranate’s natural polyphenols further assist by:
- Enhancing iron absorption at the intestinal level
- Reducing oxidative stress caused by rapid metabolic activity
This is how energy support should work in pregnancy: gently, bioactively, and through food.
Omega-3s for Baby’s Brain & Mom’s Mood
DHA and EPA — the two key omega-3 fatty acids — are essential during pregnancy. They’re not optional extras. These long-chain fats are directly involved in:
- Fetal brain and retina development — particularly in the third trimester
- Maternal mood regulation — helping reduce the risk of perinatal depression
- Inflammation control — protecting against cardiovascular and metabolic stress
But here’s the catch: most omega-3 supplements come from fish oil — and that presents problems:
- Risk of heavy metal contamination (mercury, PCBs)
- Unpleasant taste or reflux — common side effects in sensitive digestion
- Low sustainability and traceability
Our approach is different. We source EPA and DHA directly from microalgae — the same place fish get their omega-3s, but without the toxins. And we deliver these essential fats in a base of high-phenolic olive oil, rich in bioactive polyphenols that protect and potentiate the omega-3s.
The result is a clean, plant-based omega solution that:
- Supports baby’s neurological development
- Stabilizes maternal mood and inflammation
- Integrates safely into any prenatal plan
Vitamin D3 & Immune Balance
Vitamin D3 isn’t just for bones. During pregnancy, it plays a vital role in:
- Immune modulation — helping your body tolerate the baby while defending against infection
- Glucose and blood pressure regulation — two metabolic systems that often shift in pregnancy
- Fetal skeletal development — enabling calcium absorption and mineralization
Yet studies show that vitamin D deficiency is widespread among pregnant women, especially in those living in northern climates, avoiding sun exposure, or eating plant-based diets. And while D3 is often recommended, few prenatal supplements address the real issue: absorption.
Vitamin D3 is a fat-soluble hormone-like nutrient. Taking it as a tablet or dry capsule often means low uptake — especially in women with metabolic stress or gut sensitivity.
That’s why we deliver it differently. Our solution combines:
- Vegan D3 from algae — bioidentical and free from lanolin
- High-phenolic olive oil as the carrier — improving micellization and intestinal absorption
This isn’t just supplementation. It’s targeted, food-based delivery — designed to meet the biological reality of pregnancy.
Inflammation, Pain & Safe Support
From joint aches to pelvic discomfort and oxidative stress, many pregnant women experience low-grade inflammation — especially in the second and third trimesters. Yet common anti-inflammatories like NSAIDs are not considered safe for pregnancy.
That’s why we turn to food-based anti-inflammatory compounds that are gentle, effective, and backed by nature. Our formula combines pomegranate polyphenols, curcumin (in micellized form), and vegan vitamin D3 to create a smart, multi-pathway solution for inflammation and tissue recovery.
- Curcumin modulates key inflammation pathways (NF-κB, COX-2, TNF-α) without drug-like side effects
- Pomegranate supports antioxidant activity and promotes cellular repair
- Vitamin D3 contributes to immune balance and musculoskeletal integrity
This is a science-backed, food-form alternative for mothers seeking comfort — not compromise.
👉 Explore the formula: Pomegranate + Curcumin + D3
Why Food First in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is not the time to overload the body with synthetic isolates. It’s a time to nourish — intelligently, gently, and in alignment with how the body naturally absorbs and uses nutrients.
At MILESTONE®, we believe the best support comes from functional foods — because they speak your biology’s language. Unlike conventional prenatal pills, our products deliver nutrients in forms your body can actually use.
Here’s why that matters:
- Food matrices enhance absorption — natural cofactors and oils help nutrients cross intestinal barriers
- Micellized delivery mimics digestion — especially critical for fat-soluble compounds like vitamin D3 and curcumin
- Functional foods are gentler — fewer side effects, no constipation, and better tolerance in sensitive pregnancies
More isn’t better. Biologically compatible is better. And functional nutrition means choosing food-form support that respects the complexity of your changing body — not just your nutrient targets on a label.
MILESTONE®’s Functional Formulas for Pregnancy
Every trimester brings new demands. That’s why we don’t offer one generic prenatal. We offer targeted, trimester-friendly formulations — built from food, backed by science, and designed for how pregnancy actually works.
Here’s how our functional food supplements align with the real phases of maternal support:
Pomegranate + B12 & Gentle Iron
For energy, red blood cell formation, and fatigue resistance
Best for: First and second trimester
- Methylcobalamin (B12) supports DNA synthesis, oxygen transport, and neural tube development
- Plant-based iron enhances hemoglobin without causing constipation
- Pomegranate polyphenols help with iron absorption and antioxidant defense
Pomegranate + Curcumin + D3
For inflammation, musculoskeletal support, and oxidative stress
Best for: Second and third trimester
- Micellized curcumin modulates inflammation and supports recovery
- Vitamin D3 aids in immune balance and fetal skeletal development
- Natural pomegranate concentrate for antioxidant buffering
High-Phenolic Olive Oil + Algae D3
For immunity, calcium metabolism, and hormonal harmony
Best for: Year-round foundational support
- Algae-sourced D3 in a bioavailable fat base
- Oleocanthal and oleacein support vascular function and reduce inflammation
- Safe, clean, and pregnancy-compatible
High-Phenolic Olive Oil + Algae Omega-3s
For baby’s brain development, mom’s mood, and anti-inflammatory action
Best for: Second and third trimester
- Plant-based EPA & DHA for cognitive and emotional health
- Olive polyphenols protect fats from oxidation
- Fish-free, sustainable, and gentle
These aren’t generic pills. They are precision-crafted foods — created to meet your pregnancy needs, one biological process at a time.
FAQs
Are your pomegranate products safe to consume during pregnancy?
Yes, our pomegranate concentrates are made from 100% natural ingredients with no additives or synthetic compounds. They are safe to consume during all stages of pregnancy when used as directed.
Do your pomegranate products help prevent iron deficiency during pregnancy?
Absolutely. Our red-label formula combines gentle plant-based iron with methylated B12 and pomegranate polyphenols that naturally support iron absorption and red blood cell formation.
Which specific pregnancy needs does each of your pomegranate products address?
Each formula targets different needs: Red label (B12 & Iron) supports energy and oxygen transport. Orange label (Curcumin & D3) helps manage inflammation and supports immune health. Fermented pomegranate is ideal for mineral replenishment (calcium, potassium) and gut-friendly antioxidant intake.
Are your pomegranate products suitable for all trimesters of pregnancy?
Yes. Each product is designed to align with trimester-specific needs — from iron and energy in the first trimester to inflammation and recovery support later in pregnancy. Consult your clinician for best timing.
How many ml of your pomegranate products should I consume daily?
We recommend 10–20ml daily (1–2 tablespoons), depending on the product and your personal needs. Always start with a lower dose and adjust as advised by your practitioner.
Can I continue consuming pomegranate products while breastfeeding?
Yes. Our food-based concentrates can support postpartum recovery and nutrient repletion, especially iron, polyphenols, and B12, which are often depleted during birth and lactation.
Do you recommend any pomegranate product for gestational diabetes?
While not a treatment, our orange-label curcumin and D3 formula may help support metabolic balance and inflammatory modulation. Always consult your healthcare provider for individualized advice.
Can pregnant women eat pomegranate every day?
Yes — when consumed in concentrated, clean, and properly dosed form. Our products use standardized pomegranate extract in food-grade formats suitable for daily use during pregnancy.
Conclusion: Support That Respects the Body — and the Journey
Pregnancy isn’t just a moment of growth. It’s a full-body dialogue — between mother and child, between hormones and metabolism, between nourishment and resilience.
At MILESTONE®, we believe that real support starts with real food. That’s why we don’t formulate with megadoses or isolated compounds. We formulate with meaning: pomegranate for iron and energy, olive oil for inflammation and delivery, algae for brain and bone development.
Our food-based supplements aren’t just safe. They’re biologically fluent — designed to meet the needs of each trimester with precision, not excess.
If you’re navigating pregnancy and looking for gentle, effective support you can trust, we invite you to discover our Functional Food Shop — or explore Test for Your Genes™ to tailor your nutrition plan even further.
Because nourishment during pregnancy isn’t just about what you take.
It’s about what your body can use — and what your baby can build on.
Rapid Absorption
Rapid absorption (66 minutes vs. 450 for native curcumin) lasting up to 24 hours (versus 2 hours). It boosts the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory response, ideal for pregnancy.
Bioavailability Comparison
Our curcumin extract boasts 185x higher bioavailability. It provides essential protection against oxidative stress, aids in calcium absorption for strong bones, while promoting energy and vitality.
Maternal Support with MILESTONE®
Empower your pregnancy journey with our purest, safest & most effective pomegranate formulas, optimizing absorption and synergy of all vital nutrients for you and your baby’s health1.
Polyphenols for Baby's Brain
The polyphenols in our High Phenolic Olive + Omega-3s Oil naturally preserve the algae-derived Omega-3s to ensure you get the vital source of EPA DHA your baby’s developing brain needs.
Iron and B12 Synergy for Pregnancy
A great taste that lets you enjoy getting the Iron and Vitamin B12 you need. Supported by our pomegranate for optimal absorption. Ensure an improved mood, energy, and essential development during pregnancy2.
Natural Folate and Vital Nutrients
The synergy between folic acid supplements and our Iron + B12 blend enhances red blood cell formation, energy production, and overall vitality during pregnancy. All our foods are free of pesticides and toxics residues5.
Prebiotics for Gut Health
Fermented for enhanced prebiotic effects, our Pomegranate Calcium + Potassium supports your gut health, digestive function and nutrient absorption. Pure fermentation unlocks natural prebiotics6.
Pure Organic Omega-3s for Breastfeeding Moms
Our high-phenolic olive oil contains 1000mg/kg of natural polyphenols. Combined with EPA + DHA this product offers unique nutritional benefits for you and your baby.
Discover the remarkable benefits of our Mediterranean med olive oil on weight management, brimming with bioactive compounds and heart-healthy MUFAs, as you embark on your pregnancy journey.
Let Olive Oil Help!
Expecting a baby is a whirlwind of emotions, and many moms-to-be worry about gaining weight during pregnancy. But guess what? Our olive oil is here to help you on your weight journey, even while you’re expecting7. A daily 10ml shot of our med oils is one of the healthiest choices you can make throughout the day.
The Magic of MUFAs and MCTs
Our olive oil is not just any oil; it’s a treasure trove of MUFAs and medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs)8,9. These MCTs have been studied extensively and are known for their role in healthy weight loss. They even help you feel full, so you eat fewer calories. Imagine having a secret weapon in your kitchen for pregnancy cravings!
The Truth About Olive Oil
Let’s start by busting a common myth – the idea that olive oil makes you gain weight. It’s just not true. In fact, our olive oil is packed with something amazing called monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which are like your weight-loss buddies. Studies have shown that MUFAs can help you shed those extra pounds10, 11. So, no need to fear the scale!
Polyphenols Boost Metabolism
Olive oil polyphenols have been demonstrated to enhance the body’s calorie-burning capacity12. So no, it won’t make you gain weight. Instead, it can be your trusty companion on your journey to a healthier weight, even when you’re expecting. Embrace the scientific evidence and reap the benefits of our olive oil13,14. Your health, and your baby’s, are our top priorities.
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- Balasubramani SP, Mohan J, Chatterjee A, Patnaik E, Kukkupuni SK, Nongthomba U, Venkatasubramanian P. Pomegranate Juice Enhances Healthy Lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster: An Exploratory Study. Front Public Health. 2014 Dec 16;2:245. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00245. PMID: 25566518; PMCID: PMC4267107.[↩]
- Ross, M.M., Cherkerzian, S., Mikulis, N.D. et al. A randomized controlled trial investigating the impact of maternal dietary supplementation with pomegranate juice on brain injury in infants with IUGR. Sci Rep 11, 3569 (2021[↩]
- Stockton A, Farhat G, McDougall GJ, Al-Dujaili EAS. Effect of pomegranate extract on blood pressure and anthropometry in adults: a double-blind placebo-controlled randomised clinical trial. J Nutr Sci. 2017 Aug 9;6:e39. doi: 10.1017/jns.2017.36. PMID: 29152243; PMCID: PMC5672313.[↩]
- Chen B, Tuuli MG, Longtine MS, Shin JS, Lawrence R, Inder T, Michael Nelson D. Pomegranate juice and punicalagin attenuate oxidative stress and apoptosis in human placenta and in human placental trophoblasts. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2012 May 15;302(9):E1142-52. doi: 10.1152/ajpendo.00003.2012. Epub 2012 Feb 28. PMID: 22374759; PMCID: PMC3361977.[↩]
- Zhaoping Li, Paula H. Summanen, Tomoe Komoriya, Susanne M. Henning, Ru-Po Lee, Eliisa Carlson, David Heber, Sydney M. Finegold, Pomegranate ellagitannins stimulate growth of gut bacteria in vitro: Implications for prebiotic and metabolic effects, Anaerobe, Volume 34, 2015, Pages 164-168, ISSN 1075-9964[↩]
- Flynn MM, Reinert SE. Comparing an olive oil-enriched diet to a standard lower-fat diet for weight loss in breast cancer survivors: a pilot study. J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2010 Jun;19(6):1155-61. doi: 10.1089/jwh.2009.1759. PMID: 20545561.[↩]
- Piers LS, Walker KZ, Stoney RM, Soares MJ, O’Dea K. Substitution of saturated with monounsaturated fat in a 4-week diet affects body weight and composition of overweight and obese men. Br J Nutr. 2003 Sep;90(3):717-27. doi: 10.1079/bjn2003948. PMID: 13129479.[↩]
- Yang SC, Lin SH, Chang JS, Chien YW. High Fat Diet with a High Monounsaturated Fatty Acid and Polyunsaturated/Saturated Fatty Acid Ratio Suppresses Body Fat Accumulation and Weight Gain in Obese Hamsters. Nutrients. 2017 Oct 19;9(10):1148. doi: 10.3390/nu9101148. PMID: 29048361; PMCID: PMC5691764.[↩]
- Krishnan S, Cooper JA. Effect of dietary fatty acid composition on substrate utilization and body weight maintenance in humans. Eur J Nutr. 2014 Apr;53(3):691-710. doi: 10.1007/s00394-013-0638-z. Epub 2013 Dec 22. PMID: 24363161.[↩]
- Mumme K, Stonehouse W. Effects of medium-chain triglycerides on weight loss and body composition: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2015 Feb;115(2):249-263. doi: 10.1016/j.jand.2014.10.022. PMID: 25636220.[↩]
- Saibandith, B.; Spencer, J.P.E.; Rowland, I.R.; Commane, D.M. Olive Polyphenols and the Metabolic Syndrome. Molecules 2017, 22, 1082. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules22071082[↩]
- Yang JH, Chang JS, Chen CL, Yeh CL, Chien YW. Effects of different amounts and types of dietary fatty acids on the body weight, fat accumulation, and lipid metabolism in hamsters. Nutrition. 2016 May;32(5):601-8. doi: 10.1016/j.nut.2015.11.010. Epub 2015 Dec 19. PMID: 26896233.[↩]
- St-Onge MP, Bosarge A. Weight-loss diet that includes consumption of medium-chain triacylglycerol oil leads to a greater rate of weight and fat mass loss than does olive oil. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 Mar;87(3):621-6. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/87.3.621. PMID: 18326600; PMCID: PMC2874190.[↩]
