8 Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

So, you're pregnant. Maybe this is your first, or you've already had a couple of kids. Pregnancy can be an exciting time. There are so many things to look forward to. Staying healthy throughout pregnancy can help you feel more energized and can improve your outcomes during labor and delivery and beyond. It's important to listen to your doctor or midwife for recommendations directly for your situation, but these general tips can help you have a healthy pregnancy.

Detox From Drugs, Alcohol, and Quit Smoking

Sometimes you might find yourself dependent on prescription drugs, drinking too much wine, and smoking cigarettes. While quitting for your own personal health is important, it's critical when you're pregnant. If you find out you're pregnant while you are addicted to any substances, you can get treatment for pregnant women. They will ensure that you withdraw safely from any of these substances so that you put your baby at as little risk as possible. Detoxing from drugs and alcohol can help reduce the chance of miscarriage, stillbirth, or birth defects in your baby.

Eat Enough Protein

Protein is essential for fetal growth and development. If a pregnant woman doesn't eat enough protein during her pregnancy, she may have an increased risk of developing preeclampsia. One option that many midwives recommend is a dietary approach called the Brewer's Diet. You can choose from different food options that you enjoy ensuring that you get enough protein while you're pregnant to help regulate hormones, get energy for muscle growth, boost your immune system, and more. Additionally, eating protein aids in weight loss after pregnancy by increasing satiety levels so that you feel fuller longer.

Take a Quality Prenatal Vitamin

Since no diet is 100% perfect, taking quality prenatal vitamins is important for your health during pregnancy. It's important that you do not exceed the recommended dose on the bottle. Some synthetic vitamins can have adverse effects if taken in excess.

Eat Foods With Folic Acid

One of the most common birth defects of newborns who did not have enough folic acid is neural tube defects like Spina Bifida and anencephaly. Folic acid is a type of B vitamin that helps prevent neural tube defects in the fetus. It's found in foods that are high in folate, such as green leafy vegetables, beans, and peas. Folic acid can also be taken as a supplement. Check with your doctor to learn how much folic acid is right for you.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking water helps with many aspects of having a healthy pregnancy. It'll help keep your blood pressure, hormone levels, and urinary tract functioning at optimal levels. It'll ensure that amniotic fluid levels don't get too low, and it can reduce the risk of you going into premature labor. Some women get contractions when they start to get dehydrated.

Exercise Daily

A nice brisk walk is often more than enough exercise for the average pregnant woman. The rule of thumb is that you don't try to do heavier workouts while pregnant than you did before you were pregnant. Aim for 30 minutes or so of physical activity daily and listen to your body, if something feels off, don't keep pushing.

Don't Forget Your Teeth

Did you know that pregnant women are more at risk of nutritional deficiencies? This makes them more prone to dental problems including cavities and receding gums. Brush after every meal and floss regularly. Use an electric toothbrush with an oscillating head. This type of electric toothbrush can remove more plaque than manual brushing alone. Also, make sure you are getting enough calcium and vitamin D as well so that you don't get any deficiencies.

Be Kind to Yourself and Listen to Your Body

Listen to your body. If you are feeling tired, take a break. Lay down, kick up your feet, and rest. Pregnancy is exhausting at times and if your body is telling you to rest, listen to it. It's best to learn to say no to more things while you are pregnant as well so that you can preserve your energy for the people and things that need it the most.

Conclusion

A healthy pregnancy is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby. If you're trying to get pregnant or are currently pregnant, remember that every woman's body is different. Take care of yourself with lots of sleep and good nutrition as you await the arrival of your baby.