Maternal Nutrition

Explore nutrition and physical activity resources designed for expecting parents.

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Maternal Nutrition Resources

MSU Extension develops practical nutrition resources to support healthy eating during pregnancy and after birth. These materials are designed for pregnant parents and for the organizations, educators, and community champions who support them.

All resources below are free to use and share. Organizations are encouraged to share these resources with families, include them in classes or newsletters, and use them as part of outreach, education, or client support efforts.

Using WIC Benefits at Farmers Markets and Roadside Stands Videos

The Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program provides food benefits to pregnant, breastfeeding, and postpartum women, as well as infants and children under age five who meet income guidelines.

Many WIC participants are familiar with using their WIC EBT card at grocery stores, but may not realize that benefits can also be used with authorized growers at farmers markets and roadside stands. MSU Extension created the short videos below to show how using WIC benefits at these locations works and what to expect.

Organizations are welcome to share these videos with clients, staff, and partners to help increase awareness and support access to fresh, local foods during pregnancy and early childhood.

 

Video Summary: Using WIC Produce Connection Benefits at Farmers Markets and Roadside Stands

WIC Produce Connection is a farmers market nutrition program in Michigan that helps WIC clients buy fresh, locally grown, unprepared fruits and vegetables.

The program adds a one-time $30 benefit to a client's WIC EBT card. This benefit can be used at participating farmers markets and roadside stands across Michigan between June 1 and November 30.

WIC clients can contact their local WIC office to learn how to participate in WIC Produce Connection. The following MSU Extension resources can also help clients find participating vendors, plan seasonal purchases, and prepare meals:

 

Video Summary: Using WIC Cash Value Benefits at Farmers Markets and Roadside Stands

WIC helps families buy fruits and vegetables in more than one way.

WIC Cash Value Benefits are monthly benefits that are automatically added to a client’s WIC EBT card. These benefits can be used year-round to buy eligible fruits and vegetables. In addition to grocery stores, WIC Cash Value Benefits can be used with authorized growers at farmers markets and roadside stands across Michigan.

WIC Produce Connection is a separate, seasonal program for WIC clients. It provides a one‑time benefit during the growing season, based on eligibility and availability. WIC Produce Connection can be used with authorized growers at farmers markets and roadside stands across Michigan between June 1 and November 30.

WIC clients can contact their local WIC office to learn how to participate in WIC Produce Connection. The following MSU Extension resources can also help clients find participating vendors, plan seasonal purchases, and prepare meals:

Nutrition Education Email Course

This is a free, 6-week email course designed to help adults build cooking skills, save money on groceries, and feel more confident preparing healthy meals at home. Learn more: Cook Healthy, Spend Less

Today's Mom Program

Today’s Mom aims to improve the dietary and physical activity habits of moms-to-be in ways that are sustainable before, during and after pregnancy. Today’s Mom is a free program available in select Michigan counties for eligible parents. Learn more: Today's Mom

Nutrition While Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding parents generally need additional calories and nutrients to support milk production and maintain their own health. This article explains some of the increased needs while breastfeeding. Read the article: Nutrition while breastfeeding

Mediterranean Diet for Pregnancy

The Mediterranean dietary pattern is one option for a well‑balanced, nutrient‑dense eating style that can support a healthy pregnancy. It emphasizes flexibility and variety, and many culturally preferred foods can fit within a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern. This article outlines the core components. Read the article: Mediterranean diet for pregnancy

Physical Activity During Pregnancy

Physical activity goes hand-in-hand with good nutrition and can help parents stay healthy during pregnancy. Learn about the benefits and practical ways to get some movement throughout a pregnancy. Read the article: Physical activity during pregnancy

Food Safety During Pregnancy and Infancy

Pregnant women are a high-risk population for foodborne illnesses because of changes to the mother's immune system. This document, available in English, Arabic, and Spanish, outlines food safety best practices that keep parents and babies safe. Read the bulletin: Food Safety During Pregnancy and Infancy