Healthy Habits: 4 Tips to staying healthy while pregnant

It is inevitable that expecting mothers will gain weight during pregnancy. In fact, it is healthy to do so however within moderation. As your fetus grows within your body, you will naturally gain weight from fluid, the baby, and other influences. While it is a known fact that you will gain weight during your pregnancy, you can still maintain good health and wellness. This article will give you some tips on how you can stay healthy while pregnant. For additional information on this topic and other resources, be sure to check out https://www.checkpregnancy.com/.

1. Eat a nutritious diet. It is common for pregnant women to experience cravings for things that one may not normally desire. For example, a pregnant woman may want pickles and peanut butter for dinner. Allow yourself to indulge in these cravings from time to time but if they are of an unhealthy variety, such as fast food, do your best to keep these urges to a minimum. Processed and junk foods are not healthy for you or your growing baby. Further, fast food can be addicting and also fails to offer much nutritional value which is not conducive to growing a healthy fetus. Not to mention you will suffer residual effects from consuming processed foods regularly such as higher cholesterol levels, higher blood pressure, and unwanted weight gain that is challenging to rid of.

2. Sleep. After your baby arrives there will be little opportunity for you to sleep, rest, and recharge. Before your baby arrives, be sure to rest and get as much sleep as you possibly can. Your body also needs to rest and sleep in order to grow a healthy baby. If you are feeling tired or lethargic, listen to your body and allow yourself to stop what you are doing and slow down. Take a few moments to breathe and meditate throughout the day if you are unable to nap because you are at work or have other commitments. Any time that you can give your body and mind to relax and recharge will be of benefit to you and your baby.

3. Be active. While you will be sleepy and lack energy during your pregnancy, it is important to push yourself to be as active as possible. If you have a desk job, be sure to stand up every hour and walk around the building to allow for blood to flow and to get some needed exercise. If you are currently working out regularly, continue to do so but lesson the challenge to the workout. For example, if you are currently taking bikram hot yoga, transition to prenatal yoga. Pregnant women are highly advised not to take bikram hot yoga but participating in prenatal yoga is beneficial to you and your baby. Being active will also help you keep the unwanted weight gain to a minimum.

4. Take vitamins. While you want to take care of yourself, you will also want to care for your growing baby. It is important that you are providing your body with the nutrients it needs to grow a healthy child. Be sure that you are getting enough folic acid and be sure to take a prenatal vitamin that includes DHA for strong brain development.