To Eleana Kaidanian, diet, nutrition and physical exercise are as important to pregnant women as it is to non-prospective mothers
“Pregnant mothers often wait a little too late before taking precautions to take care of themselves,” said Kaidanian, a resident of Roslyn Heights.
Kaidanian, a registered dietician with interests in maternity nutrition, prenatal, postpartum care and lactation support, will bring her message to Long Island residents as host Pregnant Island, an annual event for pregnant women that will be held this year on April 3 at the Temple Judea at 333 Searingtown Road in Manhasset.
“It’s a personal interest of mine,” Kaidanian said.
Kaidanian, who worked at a maternity clinic in the city, said it shaped her interests are in nutrition and physical exercise in pregnant women.
Kaidanian graduated from New York University with a degree in Nutrition and Dietetics.
She also runs Long Island Nutritionist LLC, her own personal health and nutrition business and works as a personal trainer at Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center.
“I feel like every time I counsel someone to eat well, I bring in the physical exercise component,” she said. “I feel like they both go hand in hand.”
The expo-like event will feature speakers with expertise in the field from a chiropractor, pediatrician to a local photographer.
“It’s kind of a mini expo of local businesses that provide the resources you need but in your neighborhood,” she said.
The first Pregnant Island was hosted in Great Neck in 2014 with about 30 people in attendance, Kaidanian said.
It was moved to Plainview the following year and is being brought to Manhasset this year.
“I want to host it in different parts of Nassau County,” Kaidanian said. “I grew up here and I love the community. And I’m more familiar with the people and speakers I bring.”
Kaidanian grew up in Albertson before attending college in the New York City.
“By the time they realize they’re pregnant when the nutrient is essential to the growth of the baby, the time is passed,” Kaidanian said.
The Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), for example, is essential for the growth and functional development of the brain in infants and is recommended for expecting mothers.
Kaidanian said a woman’s body changes during and after pregnancy and there are certain nutrients that her body needs.
“The nutrients which the vitamins will provide is important for fetal development,” she said.
Kaidanian said pregnant mothers, newborns even spouses who intend to have children in the future can also attend.
Attendees will pay about $25 ticket fee to be purchase on the Pregnant Island web site.
A $50 gift pack will be given to every attendees with chances to win different gifts and prizes.
