JODY HOLTON — Health For Two Throughout Being pregnant – Port Arthur Information

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Establishing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy is vital for both the mother and her growing baby. Before starting or continuing your fitness program, of course, talk to your doctor and follow their advice.

There are definitely some things you should (and shouldn’t) be doing to prepare your body for this journey and conceive a healthy baby.

Eating healthy – and enough of it – during pregnancy is very important for your baby. However, don’t fall into the old women’s story trap of “eating for two”.

You should be consuming about 300 more calories a day than you were consuming before you became pregnant. Diet is most important; Make sure what you ingest is the best fuel for your body. Avoid indulging in snacks high in carbohydrates, sugar, and fat, adding pounds that are difficult to lose after the baby arrives.

Your doctor will advise you on the foods you need for healthy fetal development. Although nausea and vomiting can make this difficult in the first few months of pregnancy, try eating a balanced diet and taking prenatal vitamins.

Your intake should include plenty of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean meats.

Fitness is also very important in your pregnancy, so keep moving. Not only do you prepare your body for the birthing process, but you also condition yourself for uninterrupted activity once your baby arrives.

Pregnancy doesn’t mean giving up your active lifestyle. Exercising regularly during pregnancy can improve your posture and reduce some common ailments, such as back pain and fatigue. There is evidence that physical activity can prevent gestational diabetes (diabetes that develops during pregnancy), reduce stress, and build more stamina, which is necessary for labor and delivery.

If you were physically active prior to your pregnancy, you should be able to continue your activity in moderation. Your equilibrium may be slightly disturbed.

Do not try to train at your previous level. Instead, do what is most convenient for you now. Low impact aerobics is recommended over high impact. The activity of the pregnant competitive athlete should be closely monitored by her obstetrician.

If you’ve never exercised regularly, after consulting your doctor, you can safely start an exercise program during pregnancy, but not try new, strenuous activities. Walking is considered safe when you are pregnant.

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends 30 minutes or more of moderate exercise per day most, if not all, days of the week, unless you have medical or pregnancy complications. Talk to your doctor before you start exercising.

Your doctor can also provide you with personal exercise guidelines based on your medical history. Most exercises can be safely done during pregnancy, as long as you exercise caution and don’t overdo it.

You will surely find that you are more tired than usual, especially in the first trimester. Take a nap Put your feet up and take quick naps a few times a day as needed.

What an exciting time for you! In the whirlwind of preparing your family and home for the expected arrival, be sure to take good care of yourself. Stay safe, mommies.

Jody Holton writes about health for Port Arthur Newsmedia. She can be reached at jholton3@gt.rr.com.