Healthy Eating In Pregnancy

Posted on by
Reply

veges_coldMost mums-to-be are well aware of how important it is to eat a well-balanced diet at all times, but it is even more so why you are pregnant. There is an old saying that you are eating for two. This doesn’t mean that you need to double what you eat! It is better to think that you need nutrition for two.

Your  baby actually takes your nourishments so you must eat enough for both of you. The healthier you eat the better it is for the pregnancy and you.

It is important to never miss a meal while you are pregnant, especially breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and your baby has probably been waiting since he/she woke up in the middle of the night. You may learn that if you wait so long before eating you start to feel sick, this is your body telling you to eat. Do it!

Make sure you are getting enough of the food you need daily. It takes 4-6 servings of dairy produce a day for a healthy pregnancy, this can include some cheeses, milk, yogurt. This provides the baby with calcium which itíll need to develop healthy growing bones. Adding extra calcium to your diet wouldnít hurt you either, especially your teeth and bones.

Don’t forget about your fruit and vegetable servings. Lots of green is always a good choice, so are sweet potatoes. Not only will you be giving your body what it needs but youíll start to have more energy. Try laying off the sweets for a week and replace them with healthier items and see how alive you feel.

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy:

Not all foods are safe during your pregnancy, there are a few things you should avoid eating:

– Unpasteurized products- brie and other soft cheeses if unpateurized.

– Certain fish- exotic, shark, swordfish, anything potentially high in mercury

– Raw eggs

– Undercooked meats- lunch meats. If you are buying a deli sandwich you can ask for them to heat the meat up a little.

– Caffeine- soda, chocolate. If you find this difficult you can wean yourself off, but the less caffeine in your system the better it is for the baby.

If you are ever unsure of the foods you can eat, you can ask your doctor for a list of items to avoid during pregnancy. Theyíll be more than happy to share this with you.

You may also learn that your stomach won’t handle certain foods that it would before. Some of those foods may include foods that contain grease, fast foods, meat, and certain foods that have a strong odor. If you suffer from morning sickness, make sure you read our article filled with tips to overcome this.

Eating healthy doesn’t mean you have to cut out all the fun in your life, you can still treat yourself from time to time. Go out and get a frozen yogurt or a smoothie.

While you are making sure you get enough to eat throughout the day, that doesn’t mean neglecting your fluid intake. Youíll need lots of water and juices from here on out. The baby will thank you later. Who knows, you may discover that you really enjoy eating healthier meals and continue it even after the pregnancy.

Much research continues to be released about the importance of what you eat during pregnancy. Listen to your body and nurture the wee babe within to give him or her the best start in life that you can.

Mums on Top

Mums on Top

Health and Beauty In Pregnancy

Posted on by
Reply

bathSome mums-to-be think that pregnancy means that it’s time to stop taking care of their health and beauty. But it is not. Pregnancy is a time when your hormones are in a rage and you may be having pregnancy mood swings. It is easy to be overwhelmed by new feelings, sensations, and changes in your body that make you feel not in control. Taking care of your pregnant self lets you be in control and preserve your health and beauty.

Some women ‘glow’ in pregnancy, while others look in the mirror only to see disheveled hair and dry, blotchy skin. Pregnancy weight gain means that you may feel frustrated about trying to fit yourself in your pre-pregnant outfits. It’s important to change your perception and embrace and enjoy your pregnancy by taking care of your body,  health and beauty.

Studies by the MRC/US Anxiety and Stress Disorders Research Unit show that babies born of happy mothers are healthier — they are heavier, more active, and agreeable. They also absorb more nutrients from their first feedings which are essential for their nourishment. Happy mothers are also found to produce better-quality milk for their babies. Negative emotions increase the risk of developing post-pregnancy depression. This affects how a mother bonds and cares for her newborn. The best way to ward off this negativity is to preserve your health and beauty.

First, follow a healthy pregnancy diet under the specifications of your doctor or midwife. Do not assume that the diet your other pregnant friend follows is right for you. Your health and beauty needs are unique. You may have deficiencies or skin care needs, which your friend’s diet cannot address.

Second, take supplements and vitamins according to your doctor or midwife instructions. Never take drugs or any form of medicine without your doctor’s approval. It may have adverse effects on your baby.

Third, exercise lightly to avoid gaining excess weight. Expectant mothers normally gain 17-10kgs; anything higher than that can give you a difficult delivery.

Fourth, get adequate sleep and rest. Nothing is more stressful than sleepless nights because of hormones and restlessness. Make up for lost sleep during the day; your body tells you when it needs some shut-eye.

Of course, a pregnant woman’s health and beauty are not limited to her physical needs. Her emotional and psychological well-being are just as important. You know that nothing boosts your confidence than being thought of and complimented as beautiful. You can easily get that goddess feeling again through modern maternity fashion. Take all those loose, tent-like dresses your mother-in-law lent you. Contemporary maternity designers are coming out with new designs that showcase your pregnant body rather than hiding it. Take advantage of your fuller cleavage and wear lower necklines. Show off your pregnant belly in stretch tops that hug your curves in solid colors. Avoid hiding in busy prints and opt for simple, understated accents and accessories. Change your hairstyle — pregnancy is a perfect excuse to try the new pixie cut. Keep your posture straight and your feet pretty in fun flats and funky mules.

Although you may not always feel like it, taking care of your health and beauty during pregnancy is essential. It will keep your spirits high, and you’ll be in a better position to care for your new baby when he or she arrives. Pamper and enjoy your gorgeous pregnant body. Celebrate the fact that you are soon to bring a new life into the world!

Mums on Top

Mums on Top