How to Have a Healthy Pregnancy
Contrary to what some first-time mothers say, you can actually feel great during your pregnancy. It's not true that the entire period is a burden. There are things you can do in order to not just take care of your baby inside you but also yourself. And yes, feeling wonderful is possible and by having a healthy pregnancy, you also increase the chances of having a healthy child once he or she comes out.
Here are simple tips on how to have a healthy pregnancy:
1. Be sure you're eating five or six well-balanced and healthy meals every single day. Unlike when you're working out, there is no cheat day here. It means you still need to embrace that well-balanced and healthy meal even if it's weekend.
2. You must take prenatal vitamins each day, provided and directed by your doctor or obstetrician. Likewise, you can't afford to skip a prenatal vitamin because it is a building block of the baby inside you.
3. Drinking lots of fluids is a must. In this case, you have to take at least eight glasses every day. While having the thought of taking fluids, be reminded that water cannot be substituted by anything, including coffee and drinks with sugar and artificial colors.
4. Never drink alcohol, even for once while you're pregnant. It's not good on you and it's bad for your child, too. As a matter of fact, research has proven that there's a connection between mental retardation in babies and mothers drinking alcohol during pregnancy calendar.
5. You can't smoke and you can expose yourself to secondhand smoke either. This here is a no-brainer.
6. Being pregnant does not mean that you just have to sit or lie down all day. In fact, you need to do some moving so that you effectively reduce stress. The most practical thing to do therefore is exercise. There are pregnancy exercise classes where you can join. But if you don't want to be in the company of others, walking fifteen minutes each day at a slow or moderate pace will do the trick. But don't get exposed to the scorching heat of the sun. You can walk in shaded areas or even indoors.
7. You also have to get enough sleep. The ideal number is at least eight hours every night. Some pregnant moms suffer from sleep disorders and disturbances at night. So the best solution is take naps during the day. If you still don't get enough sleep, go to the doctor and ask for some advice.
8. Always wear shoes that are comfortable and do not restrict your feet. One of the things you need to avoid during your pregnancy is the swelling of your feet, ankles, and legs.
Finally, never take over-the-counter medications as well as herbal medicines, food supplements, and remedies without consulting your obstetrician or doctor. Those that you normally take when you weren't pregnant yet may have some serious effects on your health as a pregnant woman.
