4 Ways Women Can Keep Healthy During Pregnancy

A healthy pregnancy can be a time you look back on and remember fondly, a time of closeness between you and your unborn baby. But even a healthy pregnancy can be a period of your life that’s fraught with aches, pains, discomfort and, most of all, worry for the child you’re carrying. When you’re dealing with everything from nausea to picking out car seats, it can be difficult to maintain your healthy lifestyle, even though pregnancy is one of the times that it is most important to be health conscious. However, following a few simple steps can help you keep healthy even as you navigate through swollen ankles and morning sickness.

Eat a healthy pregnancy diet

Cravings and the idea that you’re “eating for two” can lead you to indulge in some unhealthy snacks. However, the CDC states that you should continue to eat nutritious meals for both you and your baby’s optimum health. The March of Dimes suggests that nutrition for pregnant women includes food from all food groups and few fats and sweets. In addition, while women do need extra calories while they’re pregnant, the March of Dimes estimates that number of calories at about 300 — or the equivalent of a snack.

Keep hydrated

Along with your healthy pregnancy diet, you’ll need extra fluids to maintain your hydration as your blood level rises, according to the CDC. Although water is the best medicine for optimum pregnancy hydration, it can be tasteless and not very fun to drink, especially if you’re craving the cool drinks of summer or warm, comforting winter beverages. In this case, substitute milk or juice, both acceptable alternatives, according to the CDC.

See your doctor often

From prescribing you much-needed medication to providing you comfort and reassurance, your doctor will be a great source of strength for you as you learn how to have a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy is the first step toward parenthood, and parents are always worried about their children — from their first steps to their college exams. However, anxiety is not a feature of a healthy pregnancy, and rest is important.

Talk to your doctor about your concerns. He or she can help you calm down; relax; and have a happy, healthy pregnancy that you’ll look back on with fondness, and maybe amusement at the number of times your doctor told you that you would be fine.

Tell people you're pregnant

Did you know that there are certain foods you shouldn’t eat, medicines you shouldn’t take and places — like saunas — to which you shouldn’t go while you're pregnant? If not, you’re not alone! Making sure to read labels, tell doctors and others that you are pregnant and carefully study pregnancy health can help you navigate the months before delivery.

Being pregnant can be a lot of fun, but pregnancy is also full of some not-so-pleasant surprises. Be prepared to make healthy choices during your pregnancy, so in just about a year’s time, you’ll be a fit mom ready to handle your toddler’s antics!

Resource: http://life.gaiam.com/